Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the Honourable Gaston Browne, has reaffirmed the country’s longstanding friendship and development partnership with the People’s Republic of China during a high-level engagement at COP31 in Türkiye.
The Prime Minister delivered remarks at the High-Level Forum on South-South Cooperation on Climate Change, held under the theme “Taking Action Together: Building a Low-Carbon and Climate-Resilient Global South.” During the engagement, Prime Minister Browne also met with His Excellency Han Zheng, Vice President of the People’s Republic of China, reaffirming the importance of continued cooperation between the two countries.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Browne highlighted more than four decades of diplomatic relations between Antigua and Barbuda and China, grounded in mutual respect, trust, solidarity and a shared commitment to sustainable development.
He described China’s partnership as an exemplary demonstration of South-South cooperation, noting its contributions to national infrastructure, climate resilience, renewable energy, technology, education, healthcare and social development.
The Prime Minister specifically highlighted China’s support for street lighting and solar photovoltaic backup systems, climate-resilient agriculture, food security and technical capacity-building initiatives, all of which have contributed to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s development aspirations.
He also pointed to the recently opened Pelican Court Housing Development at Booby Alley, comprising 150 climate-resilient homes made possible through China’s support, as a tangible example of the benefits of international cooperation.
“Pelican Court demonstrates adaptation in action, showing how South-South cooperation translates national priorities into practical investments that protect lives and strengthen communities,” the Prime Minister stated.
Addressing the growing climate challenges confronting Small Island Developing States (SIDS), PM Browne emphasised the importance of deepening cooperation in renewable energy, resilient infrastructure, sustainable agriculture and technology transfer.
He noted that South-South cooperation is critical to accelerating climate action through shared knowledge, investment and practical solutions, while emphasising that such cooperation must complement the climate finance obligations of developed countries under the Paris Agreement.
As climate change continues to threaten infrastructure, livelihoods and economic security across vulnerable island nations, the Prime Minister called for stronger partnerships that translate international commitments into meaningful action.
He reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s appreciation for its longstanding relationship with China and expressed the country’s commitment to advancing shared objectives in sustainable development and climate resilience.
“The success of international cooperation must ultimately be measured by the improvements we deliver in the lives of our people,” he declared.
The engagement reinforces Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and advocating for practical, inclusive and equitable approaches to climate action, particularly for developing countries that are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Praises China’s Support for Housing and Development in Antigua and Barbuda at Climate Summit.