Mr. Sato Kilman, former Prime Minister (PM), has highlighted opportunities for Vanuatu arising from China’s modernization and global engagement following his participation in the 2025 Understanding China Conference in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

The annual conference brought together political leaders, business professionals and academics from around the world to discuss China’s development, innovation and international cooperation. Mr. Kilman described the forum as highly relevant amid global uncertainty. He also met with Mr. Li Shulei, a senior Chinese leader, who said understanding oneself is the first step to understanding others, a principle important for promoting peace and development.

At Parallel Session 1, titled “Invest in China, Invest in the Future: Jointly Building a Community with Shared Interests for Peace and Development,” Mr. Kilman spoke about how Vanuatu can benefit from China’s growth.

“China’s development is not only a national achievement, it is a global opportunity. For small nations like Vanuatu, China’s growth provides opportunities to diversify our economy, strengthen resilience, and participate in global trade,” he said.

Mr. Kilman also mentioned China’s large consumer market, technological innovation and commitment to sustainable development. Citing the successful trial flight of the Guangzhou-Port Vila route in 2024 as an example, he pointed out that this cooperation outcome has effectively proved that investment and connectivity development can open up brand-new space for tourism, trade and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Guangdong, China’s most populous province with more than 128 million people, and Guangzhou, its capital with around 19 million residents, were noted for their openness and inclusiveness. Mr. Kilman drew a parallel with the “Ni Vanuatu” spirit of hospitality, noting that Guangdong’s welcoming approach has long attracted investors and will be key to the success of the Greater Bay Area development and China’s modernization agenda.

During Thematic Forum 11, “Understanding Guangzhou: Alive and Kicking,” Mr. Kilman reflected on historical ties between Guangzhou and Vanuatu. He recalled early Cantonese settlers who arrived in Vanuatu before independence, bringing skills, entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. Their descendants continue to contribute to Vanuatu’s economy and culture.

“Guangzhou’s vitality does not stop at the Pearl River, it extends across oceans and continues to grow in Vanuatu,” he said. He added that Chinese-Vanuatu families in Port Vila act as “living bridges” between the two nations, strengthening trade, culture and community.

Mr. Kilman also drew lessons in resilience from Vanuatu’s experience during the 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Port Vila on 17 December 2024. The disaster caused deaths and damage, testing the nation’s ability to rebuild. He said Guangzhou’s long history of growth and strength shows how communities can recover and thrive even after major challenges.

He discussed China’s global role, including international peace, development and conflicts. Mr. Kilman questioned whether sanctions always achieve their goals and said cooperation among nations is key to shared prosperity.

He praised the Chinese government and Guangdong’s local leadership for their vision, transparency and support for business. He encouraged more international participation in future conferences to better understand the 15th Five Year Plan of China and its global impact.

Mr. Kilman outlined opportunities for Vanuatu in areas such as the digital economy, green energy and advanced manufacturing. Investment in renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and digital connectivity, he said, can help Vanuatu meet challenges while participating in global growth.

He acknowledged the personal impact of the conference, which he attended with his daughter and two granddaughters.“Our relationship with Guangzhou and China shows that investment is not only about money, it is about building bridges, strengthening communities and creating a shared future,” he said.

His visit reflected the longstanding ties between Vanuatu and China, built through history, trade, tourism and culture, while showing how small nations can benefit from China’s modernization and global vision.