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Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean, in conversation with outgoing Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Barbados, Wei Qiang, during his call.
(G. Brewster/BGIS)

"We will not forget you."

This sentiment was expressed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean, as she bid farewell to outgoing Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Barbados, Wei Qiang, during a farewell courtesy call at her Ministry’s headquarters on Culloden Road, St. Michael, today.

The Foreign Affairs Minister also told the outgoing Chinese envoy that his assistance to Barbados and CARICOM had been noted and greatly appreciated and his presence had done much to cement ties between the two nations.

Speaking about relations between Barbados and China, the Minister remarked, "During your period here, very important exchanges and events took place between our countries and you have played a big part in facilitating those initiatives."

Pointing to Prime Minister, Freundel Stuart’s visit to China in June 2011, parliamentary exchanges between high level officials and the establishment of the Barbadian Embassy in China, Minister McClean remarked that the outgoing Chinese Ambassador’s tenure was dotted with "major landmarks."

In turn, the envoy expressed "profound gratitude" to the Minister, while lauding the sterling of staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.??

He added: "None of our accomplishments would have been possible without the strong support of the Permanent Secretary and Foreign Service Officers of Barbados."

Ambassador Wei described his tour of duty to Barbados as a "memorable experience", noting that he was happy that substantial progress had been made in the area of bilateral relations between Barbados and his homeland.?? He also expressed satisfaction with "people to people relations", economic and technical cooperation, and exchanges in culture and education.??

Offering to remain "always connected and in touch", the Chinese official presented Minister McClean with a parting gift.

In response, the Foreign Affairs Minister expressed her gratitude, adding, "We are happy to have contributed to your personal development as a diplomat."

Ambassador Wei will leave Barbados for Beijing in February.??

shamkoe.pile@barbados.gov.bb

Author: Shamkoe Pil??

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