Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas Haung Qinguo and the People’s Republic of China donated $50,000 to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assist The Bahamas with recovery and restoration efforts post Hurricane Matthew.

Speaking through a translator, at NEMA Headquarters, Ambassador Qinguo noted that The Bahamas and China, though many miles away, have always maintained a good relationship.

“China and The Bahamas are good friends, so the Chinese government and the people pay great attention to disasters during this time in The Bahamas,” Mr. Qinguo said.

Mr. Qinguo also noted that the donation of $50,000 is what is in the financial capacity of the Embassy here in The Bahamas, but also advised that if any further financial assistance is needed, Chinese officials would be happy to assist.

On hand to receive the donation on behalf of the government was Minister of Labour and Coordinator for Hurricane Restoration Shane Gibson, who gave Mr. Qinguo a brief idea of the extent of the damage that the islands received during Hurricane Matthew.

“We are very fortunate not to have suffered any casualties,” Mr. Gibson said.

Mr. Gibson also expressed his gratitude to the Chinese Embassy on behalf of the government, and praised China for being one of the first countries to give support.

“What we have experienced is far beyond our capacity to deal with as a government, and we can only do this with the help of our partners regionally and globally. And so we appreciate you stepping up to the plate in being one of the first countries to come and assist us and of course we welcome this opportunity to forge even a greater relationship that we have had in the past,” Mr. Gibson said.

The Chinese Ambassador noted that this is the 19th year of diplomatic relations between the Government of The Bahamas and China, also noting that when The Bahamas is in trouble, it is the duty of the Embassy to offer help.