Antigua and Barbuda’s long-serving envoy to China steps down

After more than a decade representing Antigua and Barbuda in Beijing, Ambassador Brian Stuart-Young is stepping down from his post as Non-Resident Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne made the announcement Monday night during a farewell reception for outgoing Chinese Ambassador H.E. Zhang Yanling, held at Weatherill’s Restaurant.

Speaking after the event, Stuart-Young described his tenure as “a privilege to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda” — a country he proudly calls his adopted home.

“When I presented my credentials to President Xi, it felt like a reconnection,” he said. “I was part of the original delegation that accompanied Prime Minister V.C. Bird on his inaugural trip to China back in 1983. To return decades later as ambassador was both meaningful and historic.”

Appointed in 2014, Stuart-Young served through four Chinese ambassadors and helped strengthen one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most productive diplomatic partnerships. He played a key role in negotiations for several major projects, including the modernization of the St. John’s Deep Water Harbour, the construction of community centres, and the Booby Alley Housing Redevelopment Project — all products of close cooperation between the two governments.

“My proudest moment came in January 2024, when Prime Minister Browne visited China and we officially opened Antigua and Barbuda’s embassy in Beijing,” he said. “That was a milestone that reflected how far our relationship had come.”

Although he was based outside China due to other professional commitments, Stuart-Young maintained daily contact with embassy staff in Beijing. The mission continues to support Antiguan and Barbudan students studying in China and Defence Force officers receiving military training there.

“I have always seen this work as part of my give-back to Antigua and Barbuda,” he added. “As an adopted son, it has been a source of immense pride to serve this country in such an important capacity.”

The government is expected to name a replacement for Ambassador Stuart-Young in the coming weeks.