In a momentous event that underscores the growing relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has been awarded the title of Honorary Professor by Hangzhou Normal University (HNU).

This is a historic occasion, as it marks the first time in the university’s century-long existence that an active head of government has received such recognition.

The ceremony was held at the Office of the Prime Minister in Antigua and Barbuda, with Professor Min Zhou, Dean of the School of International Studies and Director of the Centre for Caribbean Studies at HNU, in attendance.

The event symbolized the strengthening of friendship between the two nations, as well as the ongoing exchange of academic and cultural values.

Expressing his heartfelt appreciation for the honorary title, Prime Minister Browne noted that it epitomizes the enduring bond between Antigua and Barbuda and China.

He acknowledged the People’s Republic of China as “one of our closest and most reliable development partners,” highlighting the substantial aid that has supported key infrastructure projects throughout the nation, such as the air and sea ports, social housing, the Five Islands Campus of the University of the West Indies, and the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

“This honor represents not only a personal accolade but also reflects the commitment of our government and our people,” Prime Minister Browne remarked.

In her address, Professor Zhou praised Prime Minister Browne’s visionary leadership and international impact, calling him a “statesman of vision and moral courage.” She reflected on his visit to the university in January 2024, where his lecture on global solidarity captured the attention of millions in China, becoming a viral sensation and enhancing his stature in the country.

“No head of state has ever been granted this title at our university until today, which underlines the significance of this occasion,” she stated. “Your voice has inspired dialogue that promotes peace, unity, and shared prosperity.”

Responding to the honorary title, Prime Minister Browne stressed the need for fostering closer ties between educational institutions in both nations. He proposed establishing a formal partnership between Hangzhou Normal University and the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus to facilitate greater academic collaboration and exchange.

He lauded China’s role in advancing South-South cooperation, noting its significant contributions in development assistance, which have surpassed even traditional global financial institutions. “The PRC has been an unwavering ally in our development endeavors,” he stated, endorsing their vision of global prosperity.

Both leaders highlighted the vital role of international cooperation in an era marked by rising geopolitical tensions. Prime Minister Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to a non-aligned, peace-oriented foreign policy, stating, “We are too small to have enemies, advocating for peace and mutual development across nations.”

He also emphasized the shared ancestry of humanity and the urgent need for global unity to combat inequalities and climate crises.

To celebrate the occasion, Prime Minister Browne received several symbolic gifts, including a limited-edition envelope commemorating 35 years of friendship between Antigua and Barbuda and China.

A specially crafted pen used during the ceremony will be displayed at HNU’s university museum. In a gesture of reciprocity, he dedicated the honorary title to his nation, while his wife was gifted a traditional Chinese scarf, previously bestowed upon world leaders at the G20 summit.