Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, has hailed the ongoing collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China as a model of productive partnership in sustainable agricultural development.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Agriculture Water-Saving Irrigation Technology Training Programme, held at the Villa Community and Conference Centre, Sir Rodney praised participants for their dedication to modernizing local farming practices through innovation and efficiency.

The programme was hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MOAFLBE) in partnership with the Yuan Longping High Tech Agriculture Company, with support from the Chinese Embassy in St. John’s.

Sir Rodney underscored the significance of adopting water-efficient systems in small island developing states like Antigua and Barbuda, where climate change and drought pose increasing threats to food security.

“Water-saving irrigation technologies are not just tools of efficiency; they are instruments of resilience. Every drop saved contributes to a stronger, more food-secure nation,” he affirmed.

The Governor-General also expressed gratitude to the Government and People of China for their steadfast technical support in agriculture, education, and technology. He noted that this latest initiative continues to strengthen bilateral relations while fostering long-term capacity building among local farmers and agricultural technicians.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Madam Chang Yun, Honorary Consular of the Chinese Embassy; Mr. Walter Christopher, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture; and Professor Chen Xiaoliang, the training coordinator, who presented an overview of the programme’s achievements.

Participants — including Ms. Roseann Pile, Mr. Laurent Amsterdam, and Mr. Dexter Bristol — shared heartfelt reflections on their practical learning experiences, emphasizing how the training has equipped them to implement modern irrigation methods on farms across the island.

Certificates of completion and tokens of appreciation were distributed to participants, followed by a creative performance segment that included a poem on irrigation by Ms. Victoria Skepple. Mrs. Bakesha Francis-James delivered the Vote of Thanks, which preceded a group photo and farewell luncheon.

The event drew a diverse group of attendees, including farmers, technicians, and ministry representatives — all united in their commitment to advancing water and soil management practices.

His Excellency, accompanied by Lady Williams, extended warm congratulations to the graduates, encouraging them to apply their knowledge to foster innovation, resilience, and sustainability in Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural future.