Senior government officials, opposition figures, and members of the diplomatic corps gathered at the Chinese Embassy for a formal reception welcoming the new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Antigua and Barbuda, Jiang Wei.

The reception was led by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Lady Williams and was attended by Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene and several Cabinet colleagues, Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle and members of his team, as well as senior security and public service officials.

Among those present were Chief of Defence Staff of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers, and Chief Immigration Officer Katrina Yearwood.

Welcoming the new envoy, Foreign Minister Greene praised Ambassador Jiang’s extensive diplomatic background and expressed confidence that her tenure would further strengthen bilateral ties.

“Her Excellency brings to her appointment considerable diplomatic experience and a distinguished record of service,” Greene said. “We are confident that her experience, insight and diplomatic acumen will continue to advance the already robust relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and China.”

Greene reaffirmed China’s position as Antigua and Barbuda’s most significant development partner, noting that Chinese assistance has contributed to major national projects across multiple sectors. He cited the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, the expansion of the Deep Water Harbour, the VC Bird International Airport, and the Booby Alley housing development at Point, adding that China’s support will continue with future housing projects planned for Bolans and Barbuda.

In her address, Ambassador Jiang expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome she has received since arriving in the country several weeks ago, describing the hospitality of the Antiguan and Barbudan people as heartfelt and genuine.

“Although I haven’t had a drink yet, I already feel deeply drunk—drunk by the warmth and friendship you have shown,” she said, drawing warm laughter from those in attendance. She also spoke fondly of the country’s natural beauty, saying that experiencing Antigua and Barbuda firsthand had exceeded even the legendary reputation of its 365 beaches.

Ambassador Jiang described Antigua and Barbuda as a “good friend and good partner” of China in the Caribbean, noting that bilateral relations have grown steadily since the establishment of diplomatic ties under the guidance of the leaders of both countries. She said it was a great honour to take up the role of ambassador and pledged to work tirelessly to deepen cooperation during her tenure.

Reflecting on her previous diplomatic service in Kazakhstan, where China’s Belt and Road Initiative was first announced by President Xi Jinping, Ambassador Jiang noted the symbolic importance of serving in Antigua and Barbuda — the first country in the Eastern Caribbean to join the initiative. She said the outcomes of cooperation under the Belt and Road framework demonstrate that geographical distance does not diminish friendship, and that mutual respect and win-win cooperation remain the foundation of true partnerships.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Jiang outlined several areas where she sees strong potential for expanded collaboration, including infrastructure development, education, agriculture, healthcare, climate change response, renewable energy, and people-to-people exchanges. She said her mission would focus on translating shared commitments into tangible benefits for citizens of both countries.

She also highlighted China’s broader engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean, referencing recent policy initiatives aimed at promoting solidarity, development, peace, and cultural exchange, while strengthening economic and social cooperation across the region.

Concluding her remarks, Ambassador Jiang expressed her desire to build lasting friendships in Antigua and Barbuda and to work closely with the government and people to further strengthen political trust and practical cooperation.

“Friendship is better than gold,” she said, as she wished Antigua and Barbuda continued prosperity and its people happiness and well-being.

The reception marked the formal start of Ambassador Jiang Wei’s diplomatic mission and reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.