WILLEMSTAD – The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Willemstad hosted a grand reception at the Corendon Hotel on September 23 to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the PRC. The evening also marked the official welcome of H.E. Zhang Kaibin, the new Consul General of China in the Dutch Caribbean.
The new Consul-General
Distinguished guests from government, business, and civil society joined members of the Chinese community for the reception, which highlighted China’s development achievements and its growing ties with the Dutch Caribbean.
Consul General’s Address
In his keynote speech, Consul General Zhang noted that this year’s anniversary comes at a time of both global change and opportunity. He reflected on China’s transformation over the past seven decades into the world’s second-largest economy, emphasizing the country’s achievements in eradicating absolute poverty, advancing green energy, and contributing to international peacekeeping.
“Under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have completely transformed their nation,” Zhang said. “China has achieved rapid economic growth, long-term stability, and a higher quality of life for its people, while also contributing significantly to global economic growth and peace.”
He highlighted China’s role as a major trading partner to more than 150 countries and underlined its leadership in clean energy, electric vehicles, and advanced technologies. On foreign policy, Zhang reaffirmed China’s commitment to peace, multilateralism, and international cooperation, citing Beijing’s active role in the United Nations and in global initiatives aimed at development, security, and governance.
Strengthening Local Ties
Turning to the Dutch Caribbean, the Consul General praised the friendship and hospitality he has received since taking office earlier this year. He pointed to practical examples of cooperation, including the popularity of Chinese-made vehicles and solar panels on Curaçao, as well as the easing of visa restrictions that now allow Dutch nationals to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa.
“The Dutch Caribbean is welcome to get on board the express train of China’s development to achieve common prosperity and development,” Zhang said, adding that his Consulate will continue to strengthen exchanges, open its doors to all communities, and work to expand cooperation in trade, culture, and education.
A Platform for Friendship
The event concluded with a message of gratitude to the overseas Chinese community for their role in promoting ties between China and the Dutch Caribbean. “The development of China–Dutch Caribbean relations is inseparable from the efforts of the two peoples,” Zhang said. “We invite everyone to join hands with us to build stronger, friendlier, and more pragmatic cooperation in the years ahead.”
The reception underscored both the global significance of China’s national day and the growing importance of its engagement with Curaçao and the wider region.
