PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the importance of celebrating the integral role of Guyanese women in the development and integration of society.

The Head of State was at the time speaking during a press conference held on Sunday at State House, two days before the world celebrates International Women’s Day.

“Let me be very clear… there is a reason why a specific day is earmarked for the celebration of International Women’s Day and that is because of the value that women bring to our society and our country.”

Guyana joins the rest of the world to commemorate International Women’s Day today and joins in celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. This year’s theme is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow.”

President Ali took the time to pay homage to women in general.

“I just want to salute all women in Guyana, the Region and around the world, for the strength of character, for the dignity, the honour, the pride, the simplicity, in which they go about every day changing lives, changing countries and changing communities.”

He added: “We owe it to women everywhere to celebrate, not their contribution; contribution is a minimal approach at looking at this, but celebrating their integral role in the development and integration of societies.” (Office of the President)