Georgetown/New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the highest national award of Guyana, ‘The Order of Excellence’, by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali at a ceremony at the State House.
The award was conferred on PM Modi for his “visionary statesmanship, for championing the rights of developing countries on the global stage, for exceptional service to the global community and for his commitment to strengthening India-Guyana relations”.
While accepting the award on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the deep-rooted historical ties between the people of the two countries. He emphasized that his State visit is testament to India's continued commitment towards deepening India-Guyana friendship.
Prime Minister Modi is only the fourth foreign leader to be conferred with the highest National award of Guyana.
In a post on X, the PM said: “Sincerely thank President Dr. Irfaan Ali, for conferring upon me Guyana's highest honour, 'The Order of Excellence.' This is a recognition of the 140 crore people of India.”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar posted:
“Another great moment for India as PM @narendramodi is awarded the highest national award of Guyana, "The Order of Excellence”.
“Noting PM’s championing of the rights of the Global South and sharing India’s development journey with the world, the award is a true recognition of his visionary leadership.”
PM Modi conferred with Award of Honour of Dominica for support during Covid, statesmanship
Earlier, PM Modi was conferred with Dominica’s highest national award – ‘Dominica Award of Honour’, for his statesmanship, support to Dominica during the Covid 19 pandemic and his commitment to strengthening India and Dominica ties.
The award was conferred by Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the Second India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, Guyana.
Prime Minister of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit, in his address while presenting the award, thanked PM Modi for providing his country the vaccines to fight Covid, at a time when the West was hoarding them.
“Your Excellency, Prime Minister @narendramodi,
“It is with profound gratitude that we bestow on you Dominica’s highest honour, the Dominica Award of Honour. Prime Minister, this accolade is more than a symbol; it is a tribute to your enduring legacy of leadership, your commitment to humanity, and the indelible mark you have left on nations, including ours, far beyond your shores.
“In 2021, during the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, your generous provision of 70,000 AstraZeneca vaccines became a lifeline for Dominica. This act transcended a donation; it was a powerful reminder that true leadership knows no borders. It enabled us to protect our people and also allowed us to extend aid to our Caribbean neighbours who were still awaiting relief.
“This singular act of solidarity echoed the essence of global partnership and South-South collaboration.
“Your Excellency, your leadership is defined not only by decisive action but by a visionary approach that inspires the world. India’s strides in healthcare, capacity-building, information technology and infrastructure are a testament to your belief that progress must be inclusive. We have been watching, and under your stewardship, initiatives like the International Solar Alliance have championed renewable energy and also empowered smaller nations like ours to dream of a sustainable future.
“Your unwavering advocacy for climate finance justice has given voice to nations most vulnerable to the wrath of climate change. Dominica, too, stands on the frontlines of this battle, and your leadership in this arena resonates deeply with our mission to become the world’s first climate-resilient nation.
“A very wise man that I am sure you are very familiar with once said “The earth has enough resources for our needs, but not enough for our greed.” This saying reminds us of the responsibility we share in safeguarding our planet for future generations.
“This honour also reflects the shared values that unite Dominica and India—our unwavering dedication to democracy, resilience in the face of adversity, and belief in the power of unity. Today, we recognize that your inspiration extends far beyond the oceans that separate us. Like Dominica, the world owes you a debt of gratitude for your tireless efforts to uplift humanity.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Dominica, thank you for your exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to building a better world. May the friendship between our nations grow ever stronger, and may your legacy continue to light the path toward global progress.”
PM Modi in his acceptance speech said:
“Your kind words have touched me, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
“With deep humility and gratitude, I accept the ‘Dominica Award of Honour.’ I dedicate it to my fellow Indians, who have always cherished India’s friendship with the Commonwealth of Dominica.
“You spoke about the support during COVID-19. It fills my heart with joy to see how our solidarity during COVID-19 strengthened bonds across borders and continents.
“We will keep working closely with Dominica in the times to come.”
President of Guyana Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia Philip J. Pierre, and Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne also witnessed the award ceremony.
