Pacific

China President could visit Samoa

17:39 pm on 4 February 2019

China's President Xi Jinping could visit Samoa before the end of the year, Samoa's Prime Minister has revealed.

Xi Jinping and Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi. Photo: AFP / Pool / Eyepress, Photosport

The Samoa Observer reported Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi had urged the outgoing Chinese ambassador, Wang Xuefeng, to ensure the state visit happens.

"You have shared with me that China's President may visit Samoa before the end of this year and I urge you to do all you can to ensure that the state visit happens when you return to the mainland," Tuilaepa said.

Wang Xuefeng and Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Tipi Autagavaia

If Mr Xi visits, the prime minister said he would personally request Chinese assistance with the Vaiusu Bay development, the proposed site of a new port.