China’s new ambassador arrives in Antigua & Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed Ambassador Jiang Wei, the new diplomatic representative from the People’s Republic of China, who officially presented her credentials to Governor General Sir Rodney Williams on Monday.

Ambassador Jiang, a career diplomat with nearly 30 years in China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, most recently served as Consul General in Almaty, Kazakhstan. A native of Wuhan, Hubei Province, she began her diplomatic career in 1996 in the Department of Consular Affairs.

Her appointment comes as Antigua and Barbuda and China continue to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. The two countries have maintained a strong partnership in areas including education, infrastructure development, cultural exchange, and climate resilience. Chinese-funded projects in Antigua have supported improvements in public facilities and sustainable development initiatives, reflecting Beijing’s growing engagement in the Caribbean region.

Ambassador Jiang succeeds Ambassador Zhang Yanling, who concluded her four-year term last month. Ambassador Zhang was recently recognized with the Governor General’s Faithful and Meritorious Service Cross for her contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

Analysts note that China’s diplomatic presence in Antigua underscores its broader strategy to engage with small island nations in the Caribbean, fostering economic, cultural, and technological ties. Ambassador Jiang’s arrival is expected to continue this trajectory, further solidifying relations between St. John’s and Beijing.