Prime Minister Gaston Browne Hails Zhang Yanling as “An Extraordinary Ambassador”
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.”
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/10/14/prime-minister-gaston-browne-hails-zhang-yanling-as-an-extraordinary-ambassador. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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