President Sylvanie Burton of Dominica visited Beijing and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 14, 2025, during the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women. The discussions, held at the Great Hall of the People, marked a decisive step in advancing bilateral cooperation between Dominica and China.
During the meeting, President Xi described Dominica as a “good friend and good partner in the Caribbean.” He reaffirmed China’s readiness to work with Dominica to elevate bilateral relations and bring greater benefits to both peoples. According to the official Chinese foreign ministry account, Xi called on the two nations to “consolidate political mutual trust, strengthen governance exchanges, and deepen practical cooperation.”
President Burton, in turn, expressed deep appreciation for China’s support and friendship, emphasizing Dominica’s commitment to the one-China principle. She highlighted key sectors including trade, agriculture, green economy, new energy, healthcare, and climate response, and spoke of her country’s intention to enhance people-to-people exchanges and advance ties with Latin America, the Caribbean and China.
A focus of the meeting was China’s ongoing support for developing countries. Xi pledged further cooperation in infrastructure, clean energy, disaster prevention, women’s empowerment, and cultural and educational exchanges. This aligns with President Burton’s remarks that China remains a critical force for global peace and stability and that Dominica stands ready to join Beijing in safeguarding the interests of the Global South.
The meeting is significant not only for its diplomatic symbolism but also for its practical implications. Analysts say it lays the groundwork for increased Chinese investment and technical cooperation in Dominica. For Dominica, a country navigating climate-vulnerability and economic challenges, the strengthened relationship offers pathways in renewable energy, disaster resilience and sustainable development. Social-media commentary showed both optimism and caution, with supporters praising the boost in international engagement and critics questioning the balance in foreign partnerships.
As the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women continues, with China hosting heads of state from several countries, Dominica’s participation and this bilateral meeting highlighted the nation’s strategic diplomacy. The government of Dominica has indicated that detailed follow-up agreements will be announced following further technical discussions, making this an evolving story with both immediate and long-term dimensions.
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