Dominica has reiterated its support for the “One China” policy as it praised Beijing for its continued support for the socio-economic development of the Caribbean island.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, speaking at the ground breaking ceremony for the restoration of the West Coast Road on Monday also used the opportunity to ridicule members of the opposition, who in the past had criticised his administration for having diplomatic relationship with China instead of Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province.
“From day one, China’s commitment to Dominica was questioned and its every act of friendship undermined. But the People’s Republic of China remained steadfast to the cause. It never shirked and it never wavered. The guiding principles of true friendship have characterized its every action in relation to Dominica, and for this, Ladies and Gentlemen, the government and the majority of Dominicans, are forever grateful,” Skerrit said.
Skerrit was making reference to the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP), whose leader Lennox Linton last week led a delegation to Beijing for talks with the ruling Communist Party.
He told the ceremony that he was inspired by the belated sensitization of some, “to the folly and inappropriateness of continuously ridiculing a friend, who has done, repeatedly, nothing but good for Dominica.
Skerrit said he was also looking forward to the day when these individuals, under the banner of their organisation, would gladly and boldly proclaim the One China Policy.
“For there can be no doubt in anyone’s mind, at this point in our development as a nation, where the best interest of Dominica lies.
“There is but one China and the greatest tribute that we can pay, as a nation to this dear friend, is to let it be known that strict adherence to the One China Policy is the resolve of all national leaders in Dominica, irrespective of partisan creed or affiliation.”
Skerrit said that the future of Dominica is inextricably linked to its demonstrated commitment to certain principles, and one of them is adherence to the bounds and bonds of friendship.
He told the ceremony that foreign policy in the current world environment must be characterized by the promotion and preservation of national interests, in the context of shared values and mutual respect.
Skerrit said that the multi-million dollar project would involve the construction of three new bridges, as well as the restoration of several areas afflicted with road edge failures, slope stabilization, subgrade, and pavement failures.
