Antigua: PM Gaston Browne hails China-Funded Pelican Court Housing Project

Antigua and Barbuda: Prime Minister Gaston Browne has described the handover of Pelican Court, a China-funded housing development, as a historic milestone in the country’s urban renewal programme and a symbol of the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Browne thanked the government and people of China for financing the EC$50 million project, which has transformed the former Booby Alley area into a modern residential complex featuring 150 condominium units.

He described the project as one of the most socially significant project ever undertaken by Chinese investments. The project is expected to significantly improve the condition of families living in the area. As per the PM, the project is more than just construction of new buildings. It is an attempt to improve the lives of people, restoring their dignity and doing justice to the families who have been living under deteriorated conditions since generations.

The Prime Minister said that the idea of redevelopment originated two decades ago when it was made a part of the development plan, and that the project was his government’s top priority after coming to power in 2014. This waterfront development wouldn’t have been possible without improving the conditions of nearby people.

The PM paid tribute to China for helping in the project in a positive manner. He also re-affirmed the country’s commitment to continue strong diplomatic relations with China which were established in 1983. He even described China as the most significant investor and that it contributed significantly to the social and economic development and infrastructural development.

The relationship with China, as per PM, has been found on mutual trust and cooperation, and that Antigua and Barbuda is committed to keep its friendship with China alive. He also thanked the Chinese Ambassador and the concerned ministers of his government.

The handover ceremony involved signing of various certificates, marking the transfer as a valid transfer. In the end, he reiterated his government’s commitment to work tirelessly for the poor and the vulnerable.