From Hospitals to Stadiums: Barbados-China partnership powers island’s progress

Barbados is stepping up its game in healthcare and sports thanks to growing cooperation with China.

Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Ryan Straughn, and China’s Ambassador to Barbados, Zheng Bingkai, recently met to discuss exciting developments like the Queen Elizabeth Hospital expansion and the National Stadium makeover.

Straughn praised the invaluable support from Chinese medical teams, who have been a game-changer in improving healthcare services across the island. He also shared upbeat news on the National Stadium’s renovation, predicting it will spark greater local interest in athletics and help Barbados host bigger sporting events.

China’s Ambassador to Barbados, Zheng Bingkai, presents a gift to Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Ryan Straughn, during a courtesy call at Government Headquarters. (J. Bishop/BGIS)

Ambassador Zheng congratulated Barbados on its impressive economic strides, highlighting the country’s falling debt-to-GDP ratio and the solid B+ credit rating confirmed by FITCH, impressive wins despite global challenges like the pandemic.

The two leaders also explored ways to deepen their partnership, including road rehab projects, new investment opportunities, and attracting more Chinese tourists to Barbados’ beautiful shores.

Barbados and China have enjoyed a strong diplomatic relationship since 1977, and this latest dialogue signals even brighter collaboration ahead.