PM Modi Engages in Bilateral Talks with Dominica’s PM Skerrit in Georgetown
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit in Georgetown, focusing on enhancing cooperation. The longstanding cordial relations between India and Dominica since 1981 include development projects and health assistance. India’s support, exemplified through various initiatives, alongside the Indian diaspora, strengthens ties between the two countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged in bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of the Commonwealth of Dominica during his visit to Georgetown, Guyana. This meeting reflects India’s commitment to enhance diplomatic relations with Caribbean nations. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1981, India and Dominica have maintained amicable relations, marked by exchanges including previous meetings at the India-CARICOM Leaders’ Meeting and the involvement of high-ranking officials from both nations.
India’s proactive support for Dominica’s development is evident in the ongoing India-UNDP Project aimed at strengthening the Kalinago community’s livelihoods. With an initial $1 million grant established in 2021, this partnership is set to continue with an additional $1 million contribution for the project’s second phase. Notably, the Vaccine Maitri initiative resulted in a donation of 70,000 AstraZeneca vaccine doses to Dominica, highlighting India’s role in aiding the Caribbean nation amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Indian diaspora plays a significant role in reinforcing ties, with nearly 70 Indian nationals contributing to the retail and medical sectors in Dominica. Approximately 500 individuals of Indian ancestry live in the country, nurturing cultural connectivity and fostering people-to-people interactions between the two nations. PM Modi’s discussions with PM Skerrit reinforce the significance of collaboration in areas like health, sustainable development, and cultural exchange.
India has been increasingly active in strengthening diplomatic relationships with Caribbean countries, aiming to foster mutual cooperation across various sectors. The relationship with the Commonwealth of Dominica, established in 1981, reflects India’s broader strategy to engage with this region. High-level visits and meetings between leaders have paved the way for deeper partnerships, particularly in areas related to development initiatives and health responses to global challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic. The support provided by India to Dominica, including grants and medical supplies, underscores the depth of their bilateral ties.
In summary, the recent discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Skerrit signify India’s enduring commitment to fostering a strong relationship with Dominica. The collaboration extends to significant support initiatives, such as the India-UNDP Project and health assistance during the pandemic. The cultural ties through the Indian diaspora further cement the relationship, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
