On January 1, 2008, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and his Antigua and Barbuda's counterpart Winston Baldwin Spencer exchanged messages to mark the 25th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In his message, Wen said bilateral ties between the two countries have witnessed a healthy and steady development in the past 25 years. Both sides have conducted fruitful exchanges and cooperation on politics, economy and trade, culture, education and journalism, which have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples. Wen said both China and Antigua and Barbuda are developing countries, facing such common tasks as developing the economy, improving people's livelihood and establishing a harmonious society. China is willing to join hands with Antigua and Barbuda in strengthening the friendly and cooperative relations in a comprehensive, in-depth manner based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, Wen added. He also expressed belief that with the joint efforts of both sides, bilateral ties will be much closer and score more fruitful results.

In his message, Spencer said that the relationship between the two countries is an ideal model for true friendship. The two countries, as always, will develop their friendly economic and diplomatic relations on the basis of independence, equality, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs. He highly appreciated China's economic aid to his country, adding that Antigua and Barbuda will continue to unswervingly support China's policy of "One Country, Two Systems" and acknowledge the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing the whole Chinese people. Antigua and Barbuda will continue to deepen the already profound friendship between the two governments and peoples, he added.