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China to teach Pacific languages as part of diplomacy effort

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Liaocheng University Samoa class
Liaocheng University Samoa class(Setope So'oa'emalelagi)

A Chinese university is looking to start teaching seven Pacific languages, a move believed to be part of the Government's ambitious global infrastructure scheme, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The languages include Samoan, Tongan, Tok Pisin and Cook Islands Maori—and aims to improve diplomatic relationships between China and the Pacific countries signed up to the BRI.

It is the first program of its kind in Asia, and for one Samoan language teacher based in China, Setope So'oa'emalelagi, it's a sign of Beijing's commitment to Pacific island nations.

The course builds on Samoan language classes that have been run by Liaocheng University in China's Shandong Province since March.

Setope So'oa'emalelagi says the opportunity will allow stronger cultural ties between the Chinese and Pacific islanders.

"It's a great opportunity for us to promote our culture and who we are, through the language," he said.

The language courses are part of China's global Belt and Road Initiative—an ambitious infrastructure and development project that aims to connect 152 countries through land and sea.

In addition to the seven Pacific languages, Beijing's Foreign Studies University will also offer 31 other minority languages, like East Timor's Tetum or Dhivehi spoken in the Maldives.

Each of the languages are from countries that have signed on to China's Belt and Road.

Denghua Zhang is a Research Fellow at the Department of Pacific Affairs at ANU, and with Setope So'oa'emalelagi has researched the impact of Pacific language instruction on Chinese foreign policy.

He believes learning Pacific languages will help Chinese diplomats and business people in the region.

"I think language has become a barrier for this kind of understanding or cooperation," he said.

"Although English is widely spoken, this is a way to increase the understanding of this Pacific island countries [among Chinese people]."

Mr Zhang says that China is investing in Pacific language teaching as a way to promote the BRI.

"The importance of the BRI cannot be overestimated," he said.

"That is why the Chinese government will not spare any effort in promoting it globally, including in the Pacific".

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