Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne expressed the Caribbean country’s eagerness to strengthen ties with Chinese enterprises and expand imports from China during his visit to Shanghai from Jan 26 to 28.

Highlighting specific areas for potential collaboration, Browne emphasized a keen interest in enhancing cooperation, especially in the tourism and healthcare sectors. His tour included visits to Shanghai Ruijin Hospital and new energy vehicle manufacturer BYD.

At Shanghai Ruijin Hospital, Browne acquainted himself with its latest research achievements, particularly diabetes diagnosis and treatment. 

He envisions establishing partnerships with Chinese medical institutions, not only to enhance healthcare services in Antigua and Barbuda but to also position the island country as a medical hub in the Caribbean. This, he believes, would facilitate the export of Chinese medical products to other Latin American countries via the country.

Expressing enthusiasm for China’s electric vehicle sector, Browne also toured the production line of new energy vehicle maker BYD. Antigua and Barbuda hopes to purchase Chinese electric vehicles to replace its fuel-powered cars, he said, adding that the country hopes to serve as a gateway for Chinese companies exporting electric vehicles to the Caribbean. 

Despite being a small island nation, Browne highlighted that Antigua and Barbuda annually imports $600 million worth of non-oil products.

Commending Shanghai’s significant strides in science and technology, Browne expressed his aspirations to benefit from China’s technological progress through collaborative exchanges.

In discussions with Chinese travel agencies, Browne conveyed Antigua and Barbuda's desire to attract more Chinese tourists. Exploring possibilities for chartered flights and group tours, he expressed the hope of establishing regular flights between Shanghai and Antigua and Barbuda.

Source: Xinhua