Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan, also known as Margherita, concluded a two-day visit to Dominica on Tuesday, where he held discussions with Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and other senior officials. The visit aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between India and Dominica, focusing on areas such as development cooperation, capacity building, and trade.
Key Meetings and Agreements
During his stay, Muraleedharan met with Prime Minister Skerrit and Foreign Minister Dr. Kenneth Darroux. The talks centered on expanding India's development partnership with Dominica, including the implementation of quick-impact projects and the provision of concessional lines of credit. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the ongoing cooperation in the fields of education, health, and information technology.
Community Engagement
The minister also interacted with the Indian diaspora in Dominica, appreciating their contributions to the local economy and society. He encouraged them to act as bridges between the two countries and to promote India's cultural heritage.
Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in Belize
Following his visit to Dominica, Muraleedharan traveled to Belize, where he paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at a statue of the Indian independence leader located in the capital city of Belmopan. The statue, installed in 2019, stands as a symbol of the shared values of peace and non-violence between India and Belize.
Diplomatic Significance
The minister's visit to Belize underscores India's commitment to strengthening ties with Caribbean nations. Belize and India have maintained diplomatic relations since 1982, and this visit is expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation in areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, and capacity building.
Muraleedharan's tour of the Caribbean region reflects India's active 'Look West' policy, which prioritizes engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean. The visits are part of a broader effort to diversify India's diplomatic partnerships and promote South-South cooperation.
