Phillips to visit China

The strengthening of ties between the People’s National Party (PNP) and the Communist Party of China is nothing strange, says General Secretary Julian Robinson as party president Dr Peter Phillips leaves the island today for Beijing.

“We have had a longstanding relationship with the Communist Party of China as a political party and, in fact, we were one of the first countries to affirm the ‘One China’ policy about 40 years ago and we have maintained that relationship,” Robinson said.

“The leader's visit is to maintain that relationship. There is obviously a lot of Chinese investment in Jamaica’s infrastructure such as the highways and we will talk about that to ensure that projects that are done benefit us as a country,” Robinson added.

While in China, Phillips will also have discussions with major Chinese investors with interests in Jamaica, including Jiguan Iron and Steel Company (JISCO), which now operates the Alumina Partners of Jamaica (ALPART) plant in Nain, St Elizabeth.

Robinson said the meetings will be used to gauge the strength of the PNP and to reinforce the party’s vision.

Following the China visit, Philips will travel to New York where he is set to hold talks with members of the Jamaican Diaspora.

While in the US he will also be honoured by the Jamaica College Old Boys Association.

Phillips will be accompanied by Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Lisa Hanna, and the Shadow Minister of Mining and Energy, Phillip Paulwell, on the China leg of the overseas engagement.

Mikael Phillips, the Shadow Minister of Transport and Works, will accompany the team for the US leg of the trip.

We want to hear from you! Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169, email us at editors@gleanerjm.com or onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com.