China-Vanuatu ties mark 43rd anniversary with plans for direct flights to boost tourism
發佈日期: 2025-08-10 00:34
TVB News
This year marks the 43rd anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Vanuatu.
China's ambassador to Vanuatu Li Minggang says he hopes direct flights between China and the island nation can be launched soon.
South Pacific island nation Vanuatu is home to about 320,000 people.
Agriculture and tourism, being the backbones of its economy, account for about one-third of the country's gross domestic product.
However, the country has no direct flights from the Chinese mainland or Hong Kong, and travellers must transit through places such as Fiji or Australia.
The TVB filming crew's journey -- including transit -- took almost 20 hours.
Speaking to the media, China's ambassador to Vanuatu Li Minggang stressed Vanuatu's tourism industry has great potential.
Li says Vanuatu boasts pristine white beaches in the north, while the south is home to the famous Mount Yasur Volcano.
Over the past few years, he has worked to promote people-to-people exchanges and direct flights to facilitate visits of Chinese tourists, including entrepreneurs, to Vanuatu.
Li adds that Vanuatu's economy is relatively small, making it pivotal to scout partners to boost its development.
He says Hong Kong has the edge to play a role in deepening cooperation between China and Vanuatu because Hong Kong serves as an important window connecting Chinese and world civilisations.
Over the past two years, Li has accompanied Vanuatu leaders to visit China. He says they would always make time to stop in Hong Kong. They find the city enjoyable -- and are especially fond of Hong Kong's culture and food.
