Caribbean nations represented at the 4th ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum held talks with Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Wang Yi emphasized that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, a milestone of great significance in building upon past achievements and charting a course for the future. He stated that the forum has facilitated mutual empowerment and achievements between China, the Caribbean, and Latin America, while also advancing South-South cooperation and enhancing the influence of the Global South.
Wang Yi emphasized that Caribbean countries are indispensable members of the China-CELAC Forum and China-Caribbean cooperation holds vast potential. He noted that both sides should work together to deepen and solidify their comprehensive partnership.
Honorable E. P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antigua and Barbuda, opened his remarks by extending gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China for their exceptional hospitality and the professionalism demonstrated in organizing the Forum.
He stated “Our history of mutual respect and expanding collaboration proves that the vast ocean separating our regions is no match for our united aspirations. At this critical juncture, when global trade and political dynamics are increasingly volatile, we must be vigilant. If unchecked, these tensions could inflict hardship across the Global South on a scale surpassing the economic and social toll of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He continued, “That is why this Ministerial Forum holds such significance. It provides space to reaffirm our foundational principles: mutual respect, non-interference in domestic affairs, and a shared commitment to solidarity.”
Minister Greene declared that “Antigua and Barbuda proudly supports the proposed China-CELAC Joint Action Plan for Cooperation (2025–2027). We embrace the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, openness and inclusiveness, and sincere collaboration. We are committed to working hand-in-hand with our partners to implement this plan, deliver tangible results, and promote the sustainable development and prosperity of our peoples—and, by extension, the global community.
Furthermore, Antigua and Barbuda is steadfast in its commitment to strengthening the China–CELAC Forum as a robust mechanism for practical cooperation. Through its framework, we can expand collaboration in key sectors—such as trade, health, education, technology, climate resilience, and cultural exchange, thereby driving inclusive development for both parties.”
The Caribbean had representation from foreign ministers and senior representatives of Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. They collectively expressed mutual trust and respect for China, thanking China for its longstanding and robust support for Caribbean nations. They also acknowledged China’s role as a model for advancing South-South cooperation.