A picture reportedly showing the Chinese ambassador to Kiribati walking on peoples’ backs as part of an island welcoming ceremony has lighted a debate about outsider interpretation of local custom, as well as a geopolitical argument about China’s rising influence across the Pacific.

Chinese ambassador's welcome in Kiribati sparks debate, Walks across backs of locals

tang-songgen

Tang Songgen, News on Tang Songgen, stories on Tang Songgen, articles on Tang Songgen, Tang Songgen stories at Wion, Tang Songgen news, Tang Songgen latest news

tang songgen

Chinese ambassador's welcome in Kiribati sparks debate, Walks across backs of locals