High-level ministerial visit deepens strategic ties between China and Antigua and Barbuda

A high-level ministerial delegation from Antigua and Barbuda made a strategic visit to the Chinese cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou with the intent of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. 

This delegation was led by Senior Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph and was engaged in a series of meetings with Chinese government and business leaders with an aim to expand cooperation across several areas such as health, agriculture, fisheries, the blue economy, education, and innovation.

Discussions were convened on the topics of potential partnerships for hospital upgrades, smart health technologies, as well as strategies to reinforce food security and farming systems vulnerable to climate change. The modernizing of Antigua’s public health infrastructure and boosting climate resilient agricultural development were also tabled.

With respect to the Blue and Green Economy, there were talks on the exploration of cooperative models for sustainable fisheries and marine conservation. Chinese officials confirmed their support for joint ventures that seek to protect marine ecosystems and livelihoods.

Antigua and Barbuda Delegation with Chinese officials

Highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s vision for digital transformation and innovation in creative industries, Minister Darryl Matthew led dialogues on tech firms and academic institutions. This led to what was described as promising pathways for education technology, training exchanges, and cultural partnerships.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy Anthony Smith Jr. and Senator Clement Antonio were also among those who formed part of the delegation.

In the end, both sides pledged their continued commitment to long-term collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.

Source: Caribbean National Weekly