KINGSTON, Jamaica_ China has agreed to finance road, housing and shoreline renovation projects totaling $500 million in Jamaica.

The agreement was reached during a visit by Prime Minister Bruce Golding and private sector representatives who are in China in search of economic aid.

Projects include affordable-home construction and the renovation of a shoreline leading to Kingston’s international airport that was severely damaged by hurricanes Ivan and Dean in 2004 and 2007.

Foreign Affairs Minister Kenneth Baugh did not specify whether the money was a donation or a loan in a statement issued Thursday. It is unclear when the projects will get under way.

Jamaica and China established diplomatic ties nearly 40 years ago.