​The Chinese Embassy in Antigua and Barbuda hosted a handover ceremony on Tuesday morning, marking another milestone between China and Antigua and Barbuda cooperation in education and culture.

The donation was made possible through the generous support of the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School, to enhance the library’s technological resources and provide a more comfortable environment for readers and staff.

The ceremony was attended by H.E. Zhang Yanling, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Antigua and Barbuda; Hon. Alincia Williams-Grant, President of the Senate; Mrs. Karen Browne-Francis, Acting Director of the National Public Library; Mr. Wen Han, Director of the Confucius Institute in Antigua and Barbuda; and supporting staff members of the National Public Library.

Joining virtually were Mr. Chen Jing, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Congress and President of the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and Mrs. Tong Xiaohong, Secretary of the General Party Branch and Vice Principal of the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School.

In her remarks, Ambassador Zhang highlighted that education and cultural exchange remain key pillars between China and Antigua and Barbuda relations, echoing the commitment made by both leaders during Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s visit to China.

She noted that Shanghai, as an important window for China’s modernization and reform, continues to play a leading role in fostering cooperation. Quoting President Xi Jinping, Ambassador Zhang said, “A single flower does not make a spring; on the road to sustainable development, no one should be left behind.”

Ambassador Zhang also expressed gratitude to the Shanghai partners for their contribution, stating that the donation would further strengthen the friendship between both countries and provide practical support for Antigua and Barbuda’s development in education and technology.

Speaking virtually, Mr. Chen Jing noted that the donation exemplifies the deep friendship between Shanghai and Antigua and Barbuda, reaffirming China’s continued support for mutual learning and shared growth.

He mentioned that the Shanghai Library will subsequently provide a selection of books and launch online services,hoping to support the reading and learning of the people of Antigua and Barbuda, especially the youth, and to strengthen the exchanges and cooperation between China and Antigua and Barbuda.

Mrs. Tong Xiaohong, Vice Principal of the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School, showed that the school upholds the great spirit of Soong Ching Ling, dedicated to fostering global youth and peace ambassadors. She emphasized that libraries serve as bridges of knowledge and culture and expressed hope that the donated equipment would allow more people to experience cultural diversity and the warmth of friendship from China.

In her remarks, Mrs. Karen Browne-Francis, Acting Director of the National Public Library, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Chinese Embassy and its Shanghai partners for their thoughtful donation. She noted that the equipment will greatly enhance the library’s digital access capabilities and create a more efficient and modern space for readers. She also looked forward to further collaboration in education and cultural exchange.

Hon. Alincia Williams-Grant, President of the Senate, warmly recalled the fruitful exchanges with the Shanghai delegation during their visit last year.

She expressed deep appreciation for China’s longstanding support in education and culture, highlighting the vital role of education in empowerment and sustainable development.

She praised the inspiring contributions of women leaders and expressed optimism for the continued impact of this partnership. Looking forward, she reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with a particular emphasis on advancing women’s empowerment.

The donation once again demonstrates China’s commitment to Antigua and Barbuda’s national development, demonstrating how collaboration in education and culture continues to serve as a vital bridge of friendship between the two nations.