Salutations!
The founding of the People's Republic of China 56 years ago heralded a new era for China and the Chinese people. Today, China boasts of new reforms such as the equality of woman, health and education and the economy.
We in the developing world marvel at the tremendous progress China has made in the social sphere reducing the rate of illiteracy and increasing the average life expectancy of the Chinese people.
Today, as we celebrate the 57th Anniversary of the People's Republic of China, we must also acknowledge that since 1979 when China started its policy of "opening up" to the outside world and introduced its policy of "socialism with Chinese characteristics," it has experienced spectacular economic growth.

This year 2006 is seeing the launch of the Chinese government's campaign to build a new socialist countryside, focusing on the development of the country's huge rural population.

It is heartening to learn that the policy of People First, which my administration also focuses on, will lead that developmental thrust in the countryside.

China and Antigua and Barbuda share the same view that a country's economic and social progress can be of benefit to the entire population only after development of the rural economy, construction of new homes and the general upgrading of living standards have been accomplished.

The importance to which China attaches to attaining its goals in developing the countryside is highlighted by the over US $55 billion dollars for agricultural development and road construction. This is complimented by other benefits to the people totaling over US $13 billion dollars.

The celebrations marking the 57th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China certainly must be a celebration of the unique economic successes of the country.

I say unique because although China continues to focus on the development of its economy, friendly states continue to receive tremendous assistance in their own development. The economic relationship between China and Antigua and Barbuda has undergone significant changes over the last twenty years. Investments in Antigua and Barbuda are now largely through grants and not loan arrangements. This week's signing of a generous grant of EC 6.5 million dollars to assist in defraying the costs on a number of development projects, is a perfect example of the firm relationship which we share. Ladies and Gentlemen: Friends of Antigua and Barbuda:

China has in recent years seen a rapid increase in its overseas students as the country strives to become the study destination in the Asia-Pacific Region.

I am told that at the end of 2005 there were more than 140, 000 students from over 179 countries studying in China. I am pleased that from next year students from Antigua and Barbuda will become beneficiaries of the scholarships being offered by the China Scholarship Council and be counted among that number.

The twenty five scholarships that you have offered to my country over the next five years along with the 10 Silver Jubilee Independence Scholarships is commendable.

I thank the Chinese government for this investment in our people, and believe that this initiative will also serve to deepen the understanding between our two peoples.

There are many other gestures of friendship and cooperation by the People's Republic of China that have contributed to Antigua and Barbuda's development.

The donation of the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium and the contributions towards the completion of the Mount St. John Medical Centre are two major projects which underscores the friendship of our two governments.

Antigua and Barbuda and China also share similar views on a number of multilateral issues namely the reform of the United Nations; peaceful co-existence, mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty and the One China Policy

We fully support the basic principles of "One Country, Two Systems" which promotes cooperation in various fields between mainland China and its regions signaling the complete reunification of China.

The People's Republic of China has made great achievements for the past 57 years. The country has been playing an increasingly important role in the world, which the Chinese people should be proud of. China has an important and indispensable role to play in shaping the new world order and we in Antigua and Barbuda will work closely with China to achieve our common objectives. This must be for the mutual benefit of all of us.

The government and people of Antigua and Barbuda today celebrate with the people and government of the People's Republic of China on this joyous occasion.

Long may our friendship last and long live the People's Republic of China.