–private sector organisations, FITUG say
SEVERAL private sector organisations have extended congratulations to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for receiving his Order of Freedom of Barbados, the highest national award of the country as it signifies evidence of his dedication to strengthen regional partnerships.

Deeming it “well-deserved”, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), during their congratulatory remarks said President Ali’s inclusion in the list of Barbados’ Independence Day honourees is a testament of his remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment to promoting collaboration and achieving regional integration.
The press release went on to say that the PSC also joyfully extends congratulations to Dr. Ali on the “well-deserved” accolades bestowed upon him in September and October 2023.

“The Global Inspirational Leadership Award, conferred by the African Leadership Magazine, reflects President Ali’s outstanding advocacy on behalf of the developing world, a recognition that underscores his global impact,” the PSC said.
The PSC then went to highlight the award President Ali received the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Award for his contribution to food security and sustainable development.

“[It] highlights President Ali’s exemplary leadership in agricultural transformation and his unwavering commitment to building resilient economies in Guyana and the Caribbean,” the release read.
With Dr. Ali making waves in both the regional and international realm, the PSC stressed that his commitment to regional integration aligns with the goals of theirs and they look forward to continued collaboration in fostering economic growth and prosperity.

The PSC also congratulated the other honourees, including Rwandan President Kagame, for their significant contributions to the global community.
Meanwhile, the President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, Manniram Prashad, expressed similar sentiments and commended Dr. Ali for his hard-work.

Moreover, while labelling the award as “another representation of the sterling leadership,” the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), and its affiliates namely: The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the Guyana Labour Union (GLU), the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) congratulated President Ali for his accomplishment.

In a press release, FITUG said: “We are conscious, that since assuming office just three short years ago, President Ali has remained an ardent supporter and proponent of regional integration and collaboration.
“The President has never wavered from this objective and, undoubtedly, recognises the important historical and contemporary role played by our country towards the long-cherished dream of a united Caribbean in addition to the opportunities of our unity.”

They also highlighted the deepening of relations between Guyana and Barbados under the leadership of President Ali and Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and stated that the Federation is aware of several initiatives in this direction no doubt geared to furthering the links between our two countries whose relations date back many years.

The press release then went on to read: “We are certain that as President Ali takes up the mantle as Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in the first half of 2024, we will witness further efforts by him to foster regionalism and forge a common Caribbean identity. Indeed, under his leadership, we are convinced that regional integration would receive a fillip.”

Additionally, the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) extended its warmest congratulations to Dr. Ali and stressed that his award is a testament to his commitment to strengthening ties between Guyana and the Caribbean community.