New Delhi/IBNS: The Commonwealth of Dominica will present its highest national honour, the Dominica Award of Honour, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his significant contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic and his commitment to enhancing India-Dominica relations.

The award will be presented during the upcoming India-CARICOM (Caribbean Community and Common Market) Summit, set to take place in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 19 to 21.

Both Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica, and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit will attend the summit, which aims to explore shared priorities and expand cooperation between India and CARICOM member states.

President Burton will formally confer the award on Prime Minister Modi.

The award acknowledges Prime Minister Modi’s support for Dominica during the pandemic, particularly his donation of 70,000 AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine doses to the island in February 2021, a gesture that enabled Dominica to assist its Caribbean neighbours.

The recognition also highlights India’s broader contributions under Modi’s leadership, including assistance in healthcare, education, and information technology, as well as his efforts in promoting global climate resilience and sustainable development.

"Prime Minister Modi has been a steadfast partner to Dominica, especially during our time of need amid a global health crisis. It is a great honour to present him with Dominica's highest award as a token of our appreciation and as a reflection of the strong bond between our nations. We are excited to continue this partnership and work together towards a shared vision of progress and resilience," a statement read.

In accepting the award, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the importance of global collaboration to address pressing issues like climate change and geopolitical conflicts.

He reaffirmed India’s commitment to working alongside Dominica and the Caribbean in tackling these challenges.