Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Yan Xiusheng on Monday praised Government for its handling of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Yan, who was speaking during a courtesy call with Minister of Home Affairs, Information and Public Affairs, Wilfred Abrahams, at his Wildey, St Michael office, was accompanied by director of the Political Section, Gao Jin, and attaché, Xin Wong. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Deborah Payne, attended the meeting.
Abrahams said China can now be considered a “traditional partner”. He noted that China had made a mark in the Caribbean with its movies, which sparked an interest in its culture.
“For most Caribbean people that was the introduction of Chinese culture, but we have come to learn of China as a business partner, a friend in need, and as a protector,” Abrahams said.
The Chinese Ambassador said Barbados and China had signalled their solidarity in cooperating in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
He noted that China had provided expert advice in the management of the virus and personal protective equipment for essential workers.
Yan also highlighted China’s contribution to projects, including the ongoing South Coast Sewage Project, the construction of the Gymnasium of the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex and the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre.
Barbados and China established diplomatic relations in 1977. (BGIS)
