China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with Jamaica and other Caribbean countries, despite growing US efforts to expand its influence in the region.
Chinese Ambassador to Jamaica Wang Jinfeng made the declaration during a media briefing at his residence on November 12, emphasizing that Caribbean nations have the right to independently choose their international partners.
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“Jamaica and Latin American countries have the right to choose their friends based on their own decision,” Wang said, adding that China would continue promoting what it described as high-quality cooperation under its Belt and Road Initiative to deliver tangible benefits to the region.
His comments came following Washington’s announcement of a US$340 million investment and assistance package for the Caribbean in October. The United States is also planning a Caribbean Investment Summit in early 2027 to connect American businesses, financial institutions and government agencies with regional partners.
Wang declined to comment directly on the US investment package but maintained that China’s regional partnerships would continue despite changing international circumstances.
The ambassador also reiterated Beijing’s opposition to US sanctions against Cuba, criticizing what China considers unilateral economic restrictions and pledging continued support for Havana’s sovereignty.
The statements come amid shifting diplomatic relations in the Caribbean, particularly following divisions among CARICOM countries over a recent United Nations vote calling for an end to the US embargo against Cuba. Jamaica, Guyana and Haiti abstained, while Trinidad and Tobago voted against the resolution.
China’s renewed commitment underscores the growing competition between Beijing and Washington for diplomatic and economic partnerships across the Caribbean.
