Four media professionals from the Solomon Islands have completed a two-week seminar on Full-Media Communication for Belt and Road countries in China, describing it as a transformative and eye-opening experience.
The seminar, held from June 6–19, 2025, was hosted by the Research and Training Institute of the National Radio and Television Administration (RTI of NRTA) in Beijing.
These included 30 senior media representatives from countries across the Belt and Road Initiative, the likes of Bulgaria, Grenada, Hungary, Mongolia, Mozambique, Palestine, Romania, South Sudan, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands.
Most participants were Directors, Managers, Editors, and Senior Journalists.
Representing the Solomon Islands were:
- Frederick Osifelo, Manager of Television Services, Solomon Telekom Company Limited (STCL)
- Stephen Hachi, Producer & Technical Director, NIU Solomons
- Karl Tokuro Vaekesa, CEO & Director, Studiohomegrown Productions
- Stephen Diisango, Director of Communication & PR, Ministry of Rural Development
The program introduced participants to China’s advanced media systems, infrastructure, cultural heritage, and rapid development. Delegates visited top media organizations including CCTV.com, Kuaishou, and iQIYI, and explored Artificial InteIligence (AI) and traditional medicine labs in Yunnan Province.
The program was another testament to the Chinese government’s ongoing commitment to promoting communication and mutual understanding between China and the Solomon Islands, as well as providing more support for sustainable development in the Solomon Islands.
The trip was a success, providing participants with the opportunity to learn about, appreciate, and experience China’s rich history, culture, and traditions. It also helped them understand China’s media landscape, functions, and how media plays a critical role in the country’s governance.
Sharing their experiences, the Solomon Islands delegates said that the trip was an eye-opener and an experience of a lifetime.
“The program was more than just a trip — it was a testament to firm collaboration, shared learning, mutual understanding, and reverence.
They praised China’s success in poverty reduction, infrastructure, and innovation, calling it “a valuable model for developing nations like Solomon Islands.”
Despite ongoing negative perceptions of China in global discourse, the delegates said their first-hand experience has “completely changed” their views.
“This trip to China is an experience of a lifetime. We have learned a lot and built new connections with participants and friends from around the world. Our country, Solomon Islands, has a lot to learn from China, as do the rest of the world. We believe China has much to offer globally.
“Chinese people are among the kindest and most loyal you can find anywhere. They are hardworking, polite, and respectful,” the SI participants attested.
They further noted that China’s firm commitment to working alongside Pacific countries, including the Solomon Islands, in areas such as infrastructure, telecommunications, education, agriculture, environment, and health cooperation is impressive.
The program also provided cultural exposure, including visits to the Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, and Shilin Geopark, enhancing participants’ appreciation of Chinese history and traditions.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands team thanked the Chinese Embassy in Honiara, the Solomon Islands Government, and RTI of NRTA for the opportunity.
Since formalizing ties in 2019, China has supported capacity-building for over 300 Solomon Islanders in 2025 alone — across media, health, agriculture, and more — reinforcing people-to-people connections and long-term cooperation.
The seminar was funded by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) of the People’s Republic of China.
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