In a landmark diplomatic encounter, President Sylvanie Burton of Dominica met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 14, 2025, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The meeting took place during President Burton’s visit to attend the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, where President Xi had previously announced a series of ambitious initiatives to support women’s empowerment globally. These initiatives include a $10 million donation to U.N. Women, a $100 million allocation for women-focused development projects, and the establishment of a Global Center for Women’s Capacity Building. During their discussion, President Xi emphasized the robust partnership between China and Dominica, rooted in mutual respect and equality since the establishment of diplomatic ties over two decades ago. He highlighted the growing political trust, expanded exchanges, and enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including climate resilience, renewable energy, healthcare, and agriculture. President Xi also underscored the importance of cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges, as well as multilateral collaboration to build a community with a shared future for humanity. In response, President Burton expressed Dominica’s gratitude for China’s unwavering support and reaffirmed her country’s commitment to the one-China principle. She outlined plans to deepen cooperation in trade, green economy, and climate change response, while praising China’s global initiatives for peace and development. The meeting concluded with both leaders pledging to strengthen bilateral ties and work together to oppose unilateralism and hegemonism, safeguarding the interests of developing nations. The event also featured engagements with other international leaders, including UN Women’s Executive Director Sima Bahous and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan, who participated in an exhibition on digital and intelligent empowerment for women and girls.
