Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has announced a substantial pledge of over EC$27 million from China towards budget support, following his official visit to Beijing last week.
Skerrit, leading a delegation to commemorate the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, described the visit as a major success.
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During a press conference, Skerrit expressed gratitude for the warm reception received in China, noting the high level of consideration shown by all with whom they interacted. He highlighted the pivotal meeting with President Xi Jinping, during which they reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between Dominica and China over the past two decades.
President Xi and I agreed that our relations are a testament to successful collaboration and mutual respect between developing countries, Skerrit remarked, emphasizing China, role as a true ally of Dominica.
Skerrit disclosed that President Xi assured him of China, commitment to maintaining and strengthening ties, with a focus on expanding cooperation in key sectors such as economy, education, health, and infrastructure. He expressed appreciation for China’s acknowledgment of Dominica’s friendship and willingness to explore new strategies for mutual benefit.
The Prime Minister outlined specific areas of collaboration discussed with Premier Li Qiang, including infrastructure projects and economic development initiatives. Notably, China’s pledge of over EC$27 million for budget support and government initiatives underscores the depth of commitment to enhancing bilateral relations.
Skerrit highlighted the significance of the agreements signed during the visit, covering diverse, areas such as agricultural cooperation, infrastructure development, and joint promotion of the road Initiative. He also underscored the potential for investment in Dominica, particularly in sectors like tourism, renewable energy, and e-commerce.
Furthermore, Skerrit’s engagement with potential investors in China showcased Dominica’s appeal as an investment destination, with particular emphasis on sustainable business opportunities. The Prime Minister’s participation in the Boao Forum for Asia provided a platform to advocate for collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges.
Looking ahead, Skerrit emphasized the importance of following up on the valuable links established during the visit, including potential collaborations with Shanghai in business and industry. As Dominica prepares to leverage the support and partnerships forged during the visit, optimism abounds regarding the island nation’s prospects for economic growth and development.
