Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Jieyi said in Alofi, Niue, on Thursday the Chinese government always attaches importance to the relations with the Pacific Island countries.

Speaking at the 20th Post-Forum Dialogue partners meeting, Liu said China is ready to make friendly cooperation with these island countries, supports these states in their efforts to develop their economies, improve their life standards and make sustainable development.

"We are willing to keep close contact with leaders and peoples of these island countries, strengthen mutual political trust, expand cooperation and exchange in the fields of economy and trade, culture, education and health, etc. We are ready to provide assistance in our ability, push forward the relations between China and the Pacific Island countries," Liu said.

He also made a brief introduction to China's policies on climate change, energy and food safety, and hoped to make contribution to help the island countries in their efforts in these areas.

The leaders of the 15 Pacific Island Forum member countries and 14 Post-Forum Dialogue partners' representatives held their one- day meeting on Thursday and discussed such issues as climate change, energy, food safety and fisheries.

(Xinhua News Agency August 22, 2008)