Beijing, China — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with foreign ministers and representatives from several Caribbean countries on Monday, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between China and the Caribbean region.
The meeting, part of the fourth ministerial conference of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum, welcomed leaders from nations including Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Wang Yi reflected on the past decade since the establishment of the China-CELAC Forum, stating, “In the past 10 years, the China-Caribbean comprehensive cooperative partnership has entered the fast lane, and cooperation in various fields has achieved notable outcomes.” He emphasized that leaders from all Caribbean countries with diplomatic ties to China have visited, and significant cooperation projects are advancing steadily.
Highlighting the importance of future collaboration, Wang Yi said both sides should deepen political mutual trust and continue to support each other’s core interests. He expressed China’s commitment to advancing practical cooperation, enhancing high-quality Belt and Road initiatives, and helping Caribbean nations accelerate self-driven development.
China pledged to offer more government scholarships and training opportunities to bolster cultural and people-to-people exchanges. “We should strengthen multilateral cooperation and build a more just and equitable global governance system,” Wang Yi added, noting that China will continue to assist Caribbean countries in addressing climate change and amplifying their role in international affairs.
The foreign ministers from the Caribbean expressed gratitude for China’s longstanding support, particularly in infrastructure projects that have improved people’s well-being and boosted economic resilience. They reaffirmed their commitment to the one-China principle, considering it the cornerstone of China-Caribbean relations.
Looking ahead, the Caribbean leaders expressed enthusiasm for strengthening South-South cooperation through the China-CELAC Forum platform. They aim to work collaboratively to promote sustainable development and enhance their collective influence on the global stage.
This summit signifies a deepening partnership, promising enhanced cooperation and mutual success for both China and the Caribbean nations.
