The Hon. Prime Minister Philip Davis,

the Hon. Minister Michael Darville,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning and Warmest congratulations.

This project marks a new step in modernizing healthcare in The Bahamas. It is a new pillar for the health and well-being of the Bahamian people, and a new milestone in China–Bahamas cooperation. The Nassau new hospital is designed to be a people-centered project: it reflects Bahamian national priorities, meets real local needs, and supports long-term development. It follows the principle of working together, building together, and sharing the results.  

We are confident this hospital will improve daily life and strengthen the local economy. From planning to launch, both sides worked hand in hand. We followed fair and friendly consultation. We carried out careful legal, technical, and financial reviews. All procedures were professional and in line with international standards.

Health cooperation has long been a cornerstone of our partnership. In 2014 and 2015, Chinese medical teams performed more than 200 free cataract surgeries in Nassau and Grand Bahama. During the COVID-19 pandemic, China donated 13 batches of urgently needed medical supplies. Just this January, Chinese doctors with the help of the Bahamian colleagues completed 203 complex cataract surgeries for Bahamian patients. And this October, China will host a public health forum where more than 20 Bahamian public health officials will attend to exchange ideas and build capacity.

China has always regarded The Bahamas as a good friend and an important partner in the Caribbean. In recent years, under the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by President Xi Jinping, and under the guidance of Chinese and Bahamian leadership, our relationship has grown stronger. Political trust has deepened, trade has expanded, and people-to-people exchanges have flourished.  

Our partnership demonstrates that countries — big or small — can work together as equals. May China–Bahamas relations continue to grow. May our friendship endure for generations.  

Thank you.