Dominica proudly conferred its highest national award ‘Dominica Award of Honour’ to the Prime Minister of India – Narendra Modi. President of Commonwealth of Dominica – Sylvanie Burton extended the award for his statesmanship and supporting the nation during the Covid-19 pandemic and for keeping his commitment to strengthen Dominica and India ties.
Prime Minister of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit stated that the prestigious recognition was celebrated by the outstanding contributions of Prime Minister Modi to strengthen bilateral relations. It also involved the visionary leadership and his support for development goals of Dominica.
PM Skerrit mentioned that with the extension of the award they celebrate the bond of friendship and shared purpose between Dominica and India.
Reportedly, the award ceremony was held on Nov 20, 2024, on the sidelines of the Second India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, Guyana.
While extending the Dominica Award of Honour to Prime Minister of India, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said that with profound gratitude they bestow on Dominica’s highest honour. As this is more than a symbol, it is a tribute to endure the legacy of leadership with the commitment to humanity and the indelible mark PM Modi has left on nations.
PM Skerrit mentioned that in the year 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the generous provision of 70,000 AstraZeneca vaccines became a lifeline for Dominica.
The generous act transcended a donation which was powerful reminder that true leadership knows no borders. It enabled them to protect the people and also allowed them to extend the aid to the Caribbean neighbours who were still awaiting relief.
According to him, it is an act of solidarity that echoed the essence of global partnership and the South-South collaboration. PM Skerrit further added that leadership is defined not only by decisive action but by a visionary approach that inspires the world.
Prime Minister of Dominica highlighted the support by India and said that the country strides in healthcare, capacity-building, information technology and infrastructure, that are a testament to the belief that progress must be inclusive.
He expressed that they have been watching the stewardship, the International Solar Alliance that have championed the renewable energy and also empowered the smaller nations to dream of a sustainable future.
Following this, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit held a bilateral meeting with the Indian Prime Minister on the margins of the CARICOM-India Summit on Wednesday in Guyana.
During the meeting, PM Skerrit expressed Dominica’s gratitude for India’s continued support and highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by small island nations.
President of Dominica bestowed the award to the Indian Prime Minister, during the ongoing India-CARICOM Summit in the presence of President of Guyana – Dr. Irfaan Ali along with the Prime Minister of Barbados – Mia Amor Mottley. The occasion was graced by the Prime Minister of Grenada – Dickon Mitchell and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia – Philip J. Pierre. Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda – Gaston Browne also witnessed the award ceremony.
Notably, PM Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India. He said that the award is dedicated to the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between India and Dominica. He expressed that the bilateral bond between the two nations will continue to grow and will strengthen the bond, in coming years ahead.