Photo of Chinese ambassador to Kiribati walking across backs of locals ‘misinterpreted’
Image criticised as emblematic of China’s rising influence in Pacific, but i-Kiribati say practice is part of traditional welcoming ceremony
A photo reportedly showing the Chinese ambassador to Kiribati walking on peoples’ backs as part of an island welcoming ceremony has ignited debate about outsider interpretation of local custom, as well as geopolitical argument about China’s rising influence across the Pacific.
The Chinese ambassador Tang Songgen visited the island of Marakei earlier this month.
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