China signs agreement for $14 million USD grant to Antigua and Barbuda

The governments of Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China recently formalized two major agreements - a $14 million USD grant for socioeconomic and infrastructure development, and a technical cooperation agreement to conduct a feasibility study on Antigua and Barbuda’s blue economy potential.

The agreements were signed and exchanged in a formal ceremony attended by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Zhan Yanling, Chinese Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda.

In praising China’s support, Prime Minister Browne revealed that the latest grant brings the total value of Chinese-supported development assistance close to $1 billion USD over several decades.

He said that China has been one of the “most reliable and generous development partners” to Antigua and Barbuda.

PM Gaston Browen and Chinese Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Madame Zhan Yanling

“China has been there for us—quietly, respectfully, and consistently,” PM Browne stated.

 “From climate resilience and renewable energy to education, infrastructure, and healthcare—China has played a central role in building our capacity and lifting our people,” he said.

According to Browne, the newly signed $14 million grant will directly support projects including the replacement of aging water pipes, housing developments in Booby Alley and Jennings, agricultural initiatives, and solar energy infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Yanling called the relationship between the two countries a model of mutual respect, equality, and shared benefit.

“This agreement is more than symbolic—it marks the beginning of a new phase of implementation,” she said.

 “Our cooperation is aligned with the outcomes of the recent China–CELAC Ministerial Forum, and contributes to our shared aspirations for peace, connectivity, and sustainable development,” Yanling stated.

The other signed agreement will initiate a feasibility study on Antigua and Barbuda’s Blue Economy, with the support of Chinese technical experts. The initiative seeks to identify pathways for economic growth through the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources—positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a regional leader in marine-based development.

Prime Minister Browne said, “This study will help us unlock the untapped value of our marine ecosystems and create new opportunities in aquaculture, eco-tourism, and marine research—areas that are vital for our long-term sustainability.”

He further stated that, “Unlike others, China doesn’t ask us to take sides in geopolitical conflicts.”

 “They respect our sovereignty and support our development based on solidarity, not strings,” he said.

Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to China as a “reliable and principled partner.”

“Geopolitical conflicts don’t create value—they destroy it,” he said. “We suffer the consequences disproportionately, which is why we advocate for peace and prosperity for all,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with a strong message of unity and optimism, as both leaders committed to nurturing their countries’ bilateral relationship.

“Our philosophy is one of resilient prosperity,” PM Browne said.

“With China’s help, we continue to expand our socio-economic infrastructure and improve the lives of our people.”

Ambassador Yanling affirmed China’s commitment to building a “shared future” with Antigua and Barbuda and reiterated her confidence that the cooperation will yield transformational outcomes in the years ahead.