China helps Dominica with $14 million donation

Last updated: November 6, 2017 at 7:15 am

China has boosted the state coffers of Dominica by US$14 million to be used for post-Hurricane Maria recovery.

The island suffered widespread destruction and was cut off from the rest of the world for more than 36 hours when the category five storm hit on September 18.

Since then, the country has seen intense relief efforts that are now becoming rebuilding operations.

The government described the latest grant by China as earmarked for “post-disaster restoration.”

Minister for foreign affairs and CARICOM affairs, Francine Baron, applauded the contribution of China as yet another example of its commitment to South-South cooperation.

She added that it was an indication of the “strong ties of friendship” existing between the China and Dominica.

The extra donation comes after China, officially known as the People’s Republic of China, gave US$800,000 to Dominica immediately after Hurricane Maria struck.

The Asian superpower also put money into the United Nations Development Programme, which has been used to repair roofs across Dominica, bringing the total donated by China up to $15 million.

It come as other states, including Caribbean neighbours and countries further afield, rally to support the Nature Island.

On Friday, Lithuania, in eastern Europe, announced that it had set aside €10,000 (US$11,608) to donate to Dominica.