(photo by Everton Barnes)
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has described outgoing Chinese Ambassador H.E. Zhang Yanling as “an excellent and extraordinary diplomat” whose tenure in Antigua and Barbuda significantly deepened the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
Speaking during a special reception hosted in her honour on Monday night, Prime Minister Browne said Ambassador Zhang distinguished herself through professionalism, humility, and decisive action—especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I have been in politics for some 26 years and have interacted with many Chinese ambassadors,” Browne told the gathering. “But Ambassador Zhang stands out as one of the most effective and professional diplomats to ever serve here”.
He recalled that Zhang arrived in Antigua and Barbuda at a time of global uncertainty and immediately mobilized aid from Beijing—including vaccines and medical supplies—when the country needed it most.
The Prime Minister also credited her for spearheading critical development projects such as the Booby Alley Housing Redevelopment, as well as securing funding support for major international conferences like SIDS4 and the OAS General Assembly.
“It’s not very often that we hold farewell receptions for ambassadors,” Browne noted, “but this event speaks volumes about her impact and the affection she has earned.”
She was a good amabssador who represented her country welll
She help when Covid mash up everything. Those masks and vaccines from China help plenty people. Give jack he jacket.
Give jack his jacket and Jacklyn her lipstick. She did well.
Thank you for assisting Antigua in times of need. Your assistance has come a long way Ambassador Zhang Yanling.
Thank you Ambassador Zhang Yanling for assisting Antigua in times of need. Your assistance has gone a long way
Well she definitely do her part. China been real active here, and she always seem polite and respectful. Antigua need more like she
She was visible though. You always see she at events, schools, and community thing. Not like some diplomats who just disappear till Independence.
Every time a diplomat leave is pure sweet talk. All ah dem “extraordinary” and “professional.” Me just hope the next one bring some jobs and not more loans
He will hail the next one same way, once the dollars keep rolling
To be fair, China been good to Antigua Booby Alley, the port, the roads, the housing. She deserve the thanks
Love your jacket Gaston