Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, E.P Chet Greene, wants closer ties between the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean and China in the face of rising global tensions.
Minister Greene, who heads Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation attending the 4th China-CELAC Forum currently being held in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, delivered remarks on behalf of the twin island state.
During his speech Minister Greene remarked on the historic relations between China, and Latin American and Caribbean countries, which undoubtedly have resulted in mutual benefits for the peoples of both regions. Minister Greene following the earlier speech of Chinese President Xi Ji Ping, also called for further solidarity between both regions in the face of rising global tensions.
“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 stated.
The Foreign Minister placed on record Antigua and Barbuda’s support for both the Beijing Declaration 2025, and the China-CELAC Joint Action Plan for Cooperation (2025-2027) which would result in more robust trade between both regions, and support in the areas of education, climate resilience, sustainable development, technology and cultural exchanges. He however reminded the forum that CELAC member states must continue to work hand in hand to bring about tangible results for the people of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Minister Greene charged his colleagues that as members of the Global South it is necessary for enhanced multilateral coordination on issues critical to their people such as climate change, pandemic preparedness and food security. He further stated that with an elevated collective voice on these issues, the challenges of the region would be enhanced on the global stage, hopefully resulting in a more balanced and inclusive international order.
The Antigua and Barbuda delegation at the China-CELAC meeting includes Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Free Trade and Processing Zone, Senator Lamin Newton, Director of International Trade, Joy-Marie King, Senior Foreign Service Officer, Kurt M. Williams and Senior Consular Officer, Lance Browne.
