Antigua and Barbuda took significant steps to enhance its relations with China through a series of cooperation agreements signed on Wednesday.
The agreements, initiated after Prime Minister Gaston Browne held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, reflect a commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
Tackling climate change together
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said the Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) to include agreements to address Climate Change under the framework of South-South Cooperation, the formulation of the Cooperation Plan on the Belt and Road Initiative, and an agreement on Mutual Visa Exemptions.
Advancements in healthcare
Furthermore, Minister for Health, Wellness, Social Transformation, and the Environment, Sir Molwyn Joseph, signed an MOU with Alibaba Damo Academy and Hospitals.
This agreement will usher in a new era of healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda, providing advanced equipment for early cancer screening and digital health services.
Furthermore, doctors in the country will benefit from cutting-edge AI-powered tools, empowering them to deliver more efficient and effective medical care.
Water rehabilitation and narcotics control
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, E.P. Chet Greene, also signed an agreement for a Water Rehabilitation Project and for equipment to stem the imports of narcotics.
Boosting media collaboration
In a bid to enhance communication and media cooperation, Greene also inked an agreement with the China Media Group.
This collaboration seeks to strengthen ties between the state-owned Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services and its Chinese counterpart.
