Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene offered heartfelt remarks at the farewell reception for outgoing Chinese Ambassador H.E. Zhang Yanling, last night, describing her as “a true friend of Antigua and Barbuda” and “a dedicated architect of stronger bilateral cooperation.”

“For the past four years, Ambassador Zhang has not just been the head of the Chinese Mission,” Minister Greene said. “She has been a partner, a friend, and a builder of bridges between our peoples.”

Minister E.P. Chet Greene and Ambassador H.E. Zhang Yanling (photo by Everton Barnes)

Greene highlighted several key achievements of her tenure, including her role in expanding technical cooperation, educational exchanges, and cultural diplomacy.

He emphasized that her efforts went beyond the formalities of statecraft—touching communities, schools, and citizens directly. “Ambassador Zhang showed us that diplomacy is about people, not just policy,” he added.

The Minister also underscored the solid foundation she leaves behind for future cooperation. “Her leadership has deepened mutual respect and paved the way for an even more productive partnership between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.”

Greene presented Ambassador Zhang with a special gift on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, symbolizing “friendship that transcends time and borders.”