China Marks 105 Years of the Communist Party with Renewed Focus on Barbados Partnership

Bridgetown, Barbados — Strengthening cooperation, sharing governance experience, and expanding development opportunities were among the themes highlighted by Chinese Ambassador to Barbados Zheng Bingkai at a symposium marking the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China CPC.

Speaking to government officials, diplomats, media representatives, and invited guests, Zheng reflected on the Party’s century-long journey and outlined China’s development priorities as well as its growing partnership with Barbados.

A Century of Transformation

Founded in 1921, the CPC has grown into the world’s largest governing political party, with more than 100 million members. Zheng said it has guided China from poverty and economic hardship to becoming one of the world’s leading economies.

He noted that the anniversary was also observed in Beijing, where President Xi Jinping delivered a major address on the Party’s achievements and future direction.

The symposium, Zheng said, was intended to encourage dialogue on China’s governance philosophy, mutual learning among civilizations, and new opportunities for cooperation with Barbados.

Governance Through Reform

Zheng pointed to Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building as the framework guiding China’s continued modernization.

He said the model is built on several core principles:

• Strengthening the leadership of the Communist Party.
• Placing people at the centre of national development.
• Advancing continuous self-reform within the Party.
• Combating corruption through stronger institutions and accountability.
• Maintaining stability while pursuing long-term modernization.

According to the ambassador, these principles have helped China remain resilient in an increasingly complex international environment.

Chinese Modernization in Numbers

Zheng also highlighted China’s development achievements as evidence of the effectiveness of its modernization path.

Among the milestones he cited were:

• Nearly 100 million rural residents lifted out of poverty, enabling China to meet the United Nations 2030 poverty reduction target ahead of schedule.
• The creation of the world’s largest education, healthcare, and social security systems.
• More than 1.4 billion people participating in China’s modernization process.
• China’s contribution of approximately 30 per cent of global economic growth annually during the current Five-Year Plan period.

He also underscored the global impact of the Belt and Road Initiative, saying it has supported infrastructure development, reduced trade costs, and provided development assistance to more than 160 countries.

Looking ahead, Zheng said China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan will further expand international cooperation and create new opportunities for countries including Barbados.

A Vision for Global Cooperation

Beyond domestic development, Zheng emphasized China’s commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation.

He highlighted several initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping:

• The Global Development Initiative.
• The Global Security Initiative.
• The Global Civilization Initiative.
• The Global Governance Initiative.

These initiatives, he said, are designed to address shared global challenges through dialogue, sustainable development, and international collaboration.

He also pointed to China’s role in United Nations peacekeeping operations, development assistance, and support for developing nations, including expanded market access through zero-tariff treatment for qualifying countries.

Barbados Remains a Valued Partner

Turning to bilateral relations, Zheng described Barbados as one of China’s earliest diplomatic partners in the Eastern Caribbean and a trusted friend.

He referenced the relationship between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, saying the two countries, despite their distance, continue to share common aspirations for development.

Areas identified for deeper cooperation included:

• Governance and public administration.
• Political dialogue and exchanges.
• Poverty reduction strategies.
• Climate change and sustainable development.
• Capacity building and modernization.

Zheng said China respects every country’s right to pursue its own development path and welcomed greater exchanges to strengthen governance and mutual understanding.

Looking Ahead

Concluding his address, Zheng said the 105-year history of the Communist Party of China has transformed China and contributed to global development.

He expressed hope that the symposium would deepen mutual understanding between China and Barbados while opening new avenues for cooperation.

As both countries continue to build on decades of diplomatic relations, he said China remains committed to promoting peace, supporting development, and working with Barbados to build what he described as “a community with a shared future.”