Ahead of his visit to China for the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Alfred Michael Sears, the Bahamas’ Minister of Immigration and National Insurance, emphasized in a written interview with Xinhua that the cooperation between the Bahamas and China is based on principles of equality, mutual support, and win-win collaboration. Sears highlighted that the relationship has been strengthened through China’s humanitarian assistance, cultural exchange projects, and scholarship opportunities for Bahamian students. He described the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. He also pointed to the 2024 sister province agreement between Grand Bahama Island and China’s Hunan Province as a key step for enhancing cooperation in creative industries and cultural exchange.
Sears noted that China’s Global Development Initiative, which focuses on climate resilience, poverty reduction, education, healthcare, food security, and green development, aligns well with the development goals of the Caribbean. He stated that China has shown genuine commitment to fostering solidarity among developing countries and contributing to tangible progress. Describing the China-CELAC Forum as a strategic platform for political dialogue and multilateral cooperation, Sears emphasized the increase in trade and investment across CELAC, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and mining. He concluded by stressing the importance of deepening Bahamas-China relations and seeking collaborative opportunities in sustainable development, trade, and investment.