In a comprehensive October 2025 interview with China’s ‘Leader Talk’ program, Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton articulated a robust vision for Sino-Caribbean relations while delivering sharp criticism of United States foreign policy. The diplomatic exchange, conducted during President Burton’s official visit to China, provided significant insights into the evolving geopolitical landscape.
President Burton offered detailed analysis of how China’s Belt and Road Initiative has generated tangible benefits for Dominican communities, emphasizing infrastructure development and economic cooperation. She highlighted China’s crucial role in supporting Dominica’s recovery and reconstruction efforts following devastating natural disasters, framing the assistance as emblematic of genuine South-South cooperation.
The Dominican leader issued particularly strong remarks regarding climate change vulnerabilities, noting that small island developing states like Dominica face existential threats from environmental challenges. She positioned climate action as an urgent moral imperative for the international community.
On diplomatic matters, President Burton reaffirmed her government’s unwavering commitment to the One-China policy, describing it as a cornerstone of Dominican foreign relations. The interview took a more confrontational turn when addressing United States military actions in the region, which Burton characterized as ‘bullying’ tactics designed to subordinate smaller nations.
Articulating a vision of regional autonomy, President Burton formally declared the Caribbean a ‘Zone of Peace’ and called for the United States to engage in more respectful dialogue with Caribbean nations rather than pursuing coercive approaches. Her comments represent a significant diplomatic positioning that aligns with China’s growing influence in the region while challenging traditional American hegemony.