At the landmark India-CARICOM Summit 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with the prestigious Dominica National Award of Honour, the highest national accolade from the Caribbean nation. This marks a historic achievement as PM Modi becomes the first Indian leader to receive the esteemed award. The recognition, presented by Dominica’s President, Sylvanie Burton, was in acknowledgment of his leadership and efforts to safeguard lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In her address, President Burton emphasized that the award symbolized the deep gratitude of the Dominican people and government for India’s selfless assistance during the pandemic. PM Modi expressed his heartfelt thanks to President Burton, Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, and the people of Dominica for bestowing the honor. He praised the island nation’s environmental initiatives and reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties, especially through possible collaborations in areas of mutual interest.
PM Modi also took the opportunity to emphasize the pressing need for collective global action on climate change, commending Dominica as a shining example of resilience in this domain. His words highlighted India’s ongoing support for countries in tackling environmental challenges.
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The award ceremony, held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, was marked by the arrival of PM Modi, President Burton, and PM Skerrit, accompanied by the playing of both nations’ national anthems. A gathering of five CARICOM leaders also attended the event, including Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, and Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
During the event, Prime Minister Skerrit reflected on the fruitful partnership between India and Dominica, underscoring India’s support during the COVID-19 crisis, particularly the crucial donations in 2021. He hailed the ongoing collaboration as a prime example of global partnership and South-South cooperation. Skerrit also highlighted India’s achievements in healthcare, technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy under PM Modi’s leadership, noting the importance of initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance for smaller nations.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from PM Modi, followed by bilateral discussions between Indian and Dominican delegations. The Dominica National Award of Honour, typically reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to society, embodies the shared values of democracy, resilience, and unity between India and Dominica.
