China Champions Investments in Barbados visit

by Deanzer Roberts

Barbados and China are turning the page to a new chapter of economic partnership and multilateral engagement. Speaking at the Zero-Carbon Island Cooperation Meeting yesterday morning, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the People’s Republic of China, Huang Xinhua, underscored China’s commitment to deepening its ties with Barbados through trade, investment, and green cooperation—while offering a sharp critique of global protectionist policies.

“China offers a vast stage for business development, vast market prospects, stable policy outlook, and a secure environment,” Huang told a packed audience at the Accra Beach Hotel. Representatives from the UN, Barbados Light and Power, the University of the West Indies, the Coast Guard, and the visiting delegation from Yantai City were all in attendance.

Huang emphasized that China is actively encouraging its enterprises to explore opportunities in Barbados, particularly in sectors aligned with green energy and the blue economy. The growing bilateral engagement is anchored in shared development goals and a longstanding friendship between the two nations.

“This island is a good friend and partner of China in the Caribbean region,” Huang said, recalling Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s June 2023 visit to China, where both governments pledged stronger cooperation on global development and sustainability. He added, “China will continue to empower development through green energy and promote cooperation through the blue economy.”

The presence of a business delegation from Yantai City highlighted China’s interest in turning diplomatic commitments into tangible projects. According to Huang, their visit aims to implement the consensus reached by Chinese and Barbadian leaders and lay the groundwork for future cooperation, especially in low-carbon and sustainable development sectors.

As diplomatic and commercial bridges continue to be built between the two nations, Huang expressed confidence that with mutual support, “more fruits will be yielded in our bilateral cooperation, and greater benefits will be delivered to our two peoples.”