Tashieka Mair, Gleaner Writer

Chinese Ambassador Chen Jinghua (right) discusses the Chinese economy with former governor general, Sir Howard Cooke, during a visit to Sir Howard's home in St James on Tuesday. - Photo by Tashieka Mair

WESTERN BUREAU:

Chinese Ambassador Chen Jinghua says he will be doing all he can to strengthen bilateral relations between his homeland and Jamaica during his tenure on the island.

Ambassador Chen, who paid a courtesy call on former governor general, Sir Howard Cooke, and Lady Cooke at their home in Montego Bay on Tuesday, told The Gleaner that the 35-year relationship between the countries could create opportunities as Jamaica works towards becoming a developed country by 2030.

"There will be a lot of opportunities in terms of construction, social development and economic development, and so China would love to be a partner in that process, as it offers opportunity for Chinese companies as well," Ambassador Chen said.

"As the country's top representative here in Jamaica, I will be doing all that I can to strengthen the relationship and friendship between the two countries, so as to have more cooperative work projects which would benefit the people of both countries."

Ambassador Chen expressed satisfaction with the Chinese community in Jamaica which, he said, has been making sterling contributions to the Jamaican economy, and many of whom now see Jamaica as home.

During his visit with the former governor general, they discussed the economy, changes in technology and medicine and culture.

In response to Lady Cooke's suggestion that China could one day become a superpower, Ambassador Chen said his homeland wanted to be strong while maintaining friendly relations with other nations, and that the "superpower title" is usually typical of countries that get ahead by bullying other nations.