by Petra Williams

When Antigua and Barbuda joined the world in commemorating the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in September, it was not only the annual diplomatic celebration, but it was the formal close of service of the most engaged envoys to have served here, Her Excellency Zhang Yanling. The evening of cultural exchange and reflection marked the final National Day observance of her tenure. In many ways, it encapsulated the warmth, vision, and balance that defined her time in Antigua and Barbuda.

Building Bridges Beyond Borders

Ambassador Zhang’s four-year posting was characterized by action and accessibility. She was as comfortable addressing dignitaries at official ceremonies as she was joining in the rhythms of Carnival, sampling local cuisine, or visiting communities touched by bilateral cooperation. Her belief that diplomacy should be lived, not merely spoken, was evident in every project, performance, and partnership she helped shape.

Under her stewardship, the relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and China reached new levels of practical collaboration. She oversaw the activation of key initiatives such as the Booby Alley housing project, the delivery of solar streetlights and energy systems, and continuous agricultural and educational exchanges. Infrastructure developments at our ports and points of entry reflected China’s tangible footprint. At the same time, cultural and education contributions, which include support to the Pandemonium Steel Orchestra and the National Public Library, underscore a partnership that values both progress and people.

Celebrating a Tenure of Transformation

This final National Day under Ambassador Zhang’s (September 15, 2025) watch carried

special resonance. In her address, she reflected on China’s journey of self-determination and development, from post-war hardship to technological advancement and social stability. Her words, “only when all countries and nations treat each other as equals, coexist in peace and support each other, can we uphold common security and prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies,” felt particularly fitting in today’s fractured world.

In response, Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne and Foreign Minister E.P. Chet Greene lauded her as a true friend of Antigua and Barbuda, noting that her efforts went far beyond protocol; they changed lives. Indeed, her approach to diplomacy left fingerprints across every primary development sector: infrastructure, culture, education, and climate resilience.

The entertainment, a complete package, featured some of Antigua and Barbuda’s best, such as King Short Shirt, Khan Cordice, and Shiva’s School of Dance. It also included a cast of delightful Chinese artistic performances, blending to give voice to the Chinese principle of shared experiences and mutual respect.

Before her departure, Ambassador Zhang was awarded the Governor General’s Faithful and

Meritorious Service Cross (FMC) in recognition of her “distinguished service in

strengthening the bonds of friendship, practical cooperation, and cultural exchange” between

both nations. Speaking during the honour ceremony, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams

commended her for turning goodwill into tangible outcomes: strengthening institutions, nurturing cultural understanding, and advancing the spirit of South-South cooperation.

I was afforded several opportunities to visit China during Ambassador Zhang’s tenure, twenty-four years after my first visit. The transformation I witnessed decades later spoke to the value of strategic visioning and long-term planning, mixed with structure and intentional execution. Exposure to Chinese culture, entrepreneurship, government at work, and media has provided a deep appreciation of how strategic communication and cultural preservation can coexist. The way China has used modern technology to document, celebrate, and sustain its culture and history is something from which all small nations can draw inspiration. The experiences proved invaluable in refining my vision and planning for the next steps of my professional pursuits, while also further solidifying my spirit of patriotism.

I do not doubt that Madame Zhang will remain a positive influence and a distinguished leader wherever she is called to serve on behalf of her nation. Her poise, intellect, and quiet strength have left an imprint not only on the national diplomatic landscape but also on those of us fortunate enough to have been in her sphere of influence.

A Lasting Legacy

As Antigua and Barbuda now looks to the next chapter in its relationship with China, the foundations Ambassador Zhang laid will remain strong. Her legacy is visible not only in bricks and mortar, or in formal agreements, but in the spirit of mutual respect she cultivated. A reminder that diplomacy, when practiced with sincerity, can uplift both nations and people.

Her departure is not an ending but a continuation, a passing of the torch in a friendship defined by partnership, respect, and shared purpose. The seeds she planted across communities, classrooms, and ministries will continue to bear fruit for years to come.

H.E. Zhang Yanling’s tenure will be remembered as one of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering

commitment, a bridge between two nations that will stand the test of time.

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