A recent visit to the People’s Republic of China by Grenada’s Minister for Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture, Hon. Adrian Thomas, is expected to generate significant benefits for the country in areas such as investment, tourism development, cultural advancement, and the preservation and protection of Grenada’s museum and heritage assets.
Minister Thomas travelled to China to address the Third High-Level Conference of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development, held under the theme “Action-Oriented: Building a Global Community of Development for All.”
As the only representative from the Caribbean at the international conference, Minister Thomas highlighted the importance of sustainable development for Small Island Developing States, with particular emphasis on Grenada. He also outlined the country’s progress in key sectors, including health and education.
Following the conference, Minister Thomas held a series of meetings with senior government and business officials aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring investment opportunities.
Among those he met was Mr Zhang Shuke of Hebei Jinhuida Energy Equipment Technology Co. Ltd, a company with interests in tourism, culture, renewable energy equipment, and wind power. Mr Zhang expressed strong interest in investing in Grenada, with trade and tourism identified as initial areas of collaboration.
“Whatever investment opportunities exist in Grenada, they are interested in exploring the possibility of becoming involved,” Minister Thomas said.
During discussions with a Chinese travel organisation, the possibility of introducing seasonal charter flights from China to Grenada during peak travel periods was also raised. “The travel agency indicated that Grenada is regarded as a highly attractive destination and that promotional efforts can be undertaken in China to encourage travel to our country,” Minister Thomas explained.
Given the long distance between China and Grenada, it was suggested that flights could include a stopover in Mexico before continuing to Grenada.
Minister Thomas’ visit also included tours of the Forbidden City and Palace Museum, which was established in 1925 and houses more than 10,000 cultural relics.
During a meeting with Ms Su Yi, Deputy Director of the Palace Museum, Grenada was offered opportunities for academic exchange and professional training. Under the proposal, Grenadians would be able to spend three to six months at the museum conducting research and receiving hands-on training in museum development, artefact preservation, and heritage management.
“They have offered assistance to Grenada in terms of training. We will follow up on the proposal to send trainees to China for three to six months so they can gain firsthand knowledge and skills in establishing museums and preserving artefacts,” Minister Thomas said.
China also called for increased collaboration between cultural institutions in both countries and emphasised the importance of integrating culture and the creative industries. This was highlighted during a meeting with Lu Yingchuan, Vice Minister for Culture and Tourism of the Ministry of Culture of the People’s Republic of China.
Minister Thomas said discussions with the Vice Minister focused on strengthening cooperation in culture, the creative industries, and culinary arts.
The visit underscores Grenada’s ongoing efforts to deepen international partnerships and create new opportunities for investment, tourism growth, cultural exchange, and capacity building for the benefit of the nation.
Ministry of Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture
When are we going get rid of this pipe dream of China is interested in helping Grenada. This makes no sense!
Why these politicians are always looking for hand out from others?