PM Browne Welcomes New Chinese Ambassador, Cites Four Decades of Transformational Partnership

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has formally received Her Excellency Jiang Wei as the new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, marking what officials describe as the continuation of a deeply rooted and highly productive bilateral relationship.

Ambassador Jiang presented her credentials on Monday to Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, and Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene.

In brief remarks, Ambassador Jiang pledged to strengthen what she called a long-standing and mutually respectful partnership, expressing confidence that her tenure will open new avenues for cooperation across key areas of national development.

Prime Minister Browne welcomed the new envoy and pointed to China’s extensive and lasting contributions since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1983.

“China has assisted in practically every area of national development — from infrastructure and ports to healthcare, education, information technology, and institutional strengthening,” Browne said, citing hospital upgrades, deep-water harbor expansion, university construction, and hundreds of scholarships awarded to Antiguan and Barbudan students.

Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s continued support for the One-China Principle, describing the country’s position as consistent, respectful of sovereignty, and grounded in international norms.

Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene echoed the Prime Minister’s remarks, noting that China is widely regarded as Antigua and Barbuda’s leading development partner, with cooperation spanning housing, public administration, economic development, and technology.

Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams highlighted that Antigua and Barbuda was among the earlier nations to recognize the People’s Republic of China and has benefited significantly from more than four decades of uninterrupted cooperation.

Government officials expressed confidence that Ambassador Jiang’s appointment will further expand trade and investment, deepen cultural and education exchanges, and advance development initiatives aligned with national priorities, including through China–CELAC and other regional frameworks.

The administration says it looks forward to continued collaboration and reaffirmed its commitment to a future grounded in partnership, shared prosperity, and mutual respect.