China joined the South Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) on Tuesday, becoming the organization's first member from outside the region.

Officials attending the ceremony held in Suva, capital of South Pacific island state of Fiji, said China's presence in the organization will help boost regional tourism and enhance understanding between China and the island countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Fiji Cai Jinbiao announced that China considers developing relations with South Pacific countries a matter of importance.

As the world's most important tourist market, China is happy to share with South Pacific countries its experience in developing tourism, he said.

On behalf of the SPTO, the head of Fiji's Tourism Ministry Ratu Napolioni Masirewa welcomed China as the organization's 13th member state.

He pointed out that China, with its huge market potential, can offer economic benefits and also encourage other powerful nations from outside the region to join the SPTO.

The SPTO, established in 1986 and based in Suva, is a regional inter-governmental organization for the joint promotion of the region as a tourist destination.

Besides China, the SPTO has 12 other member countries or regions: the Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiritati, New Caledonia, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tanga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

(Xinhua News Agency April 21, 2004)