On September 25, 2006, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing paid a short visit to Antigua and Barbuda, an island country in the Caribbean Sea.

During his stay in Antigua and Barbuda, Li called on Governor General James Carlisle and held talks with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Baldwin Spencer in the country's capital of St. John's.

Both sides expressed their satisfaction with the fruitful cooperation in various fields. The leaders of Antigua and Barbuda described China as a sincere friend and reliable partner as China deals with bilateral relations with Antigua and Barbuda on an equal footing, adding the Caribbean state will continue to be dedicated to strengthening friendship and cooperation with China.

Li said that as both China and Antigua and Barbuda are developing countries, developing their friendly and cooperative relationship conforms to the fundamental interests of both countries and their people. Li appreciated Antigua and Barbuda's reiteration of adherence to the one-China policy.

Both sides agreed to increase exchanges between the governments, parliaments and political parties to build up mutual understanding and trust. They also agreed to deepen trade cooperation and continue economic and technological collaboration. They vowed to expand cooperation in a wide range of fields like culture, educational exchange, personnel contacts and tourism.

They also exchanged views on relations between China and the Caribbean Community. Both sides agreed on a joint effort for an early establishment of a dialogue mechanism between China and the Caribbean Community. During the visit, both sides also signed a couple of documents related to economic, technological and educational cooperation between both sides.

The 14-member Caribbean Community, which was founded in August 1973, has played an important role in safeguarding regional stability, promoting economic growth and realizing regional integration.

As a member of Commonwealth, Antigua and Barbuda, with an area of 441.6 sq. km and a population of 73, 000, announced independence on November 1, 1981. It forged diplomatic ties with China on January 1, 1983.