President Ali recalls LaRocque’s Solomonic wisdom

PRESIDENT IRFAAN ALI DREW ON ANCIENT SOLOMONIC WISDOM to eulogise
outgoing CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, at a farewell ceremony.
Solomon, the ancient Hebrew King, wrote back then, that “Through wisdom is an house builded;
and by understanding it is established:   And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all
precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth
strength.”
For President Ali, Ambassador LaRocque epitomized the glorious leadership qualities during his
10-year tenure at the helm of the regional integration body that would redound to widespread
societal gains.
The Guyanese leader presented the Dominican-born LaRocque with an exquisite piece of
sculptor crafted by renowned Guyanese artist, Mr. Winslow Craig made from Silverballi and
Saman. It represents Guyana and the other 14 member states comprising the regional body.
“This piece is entitled ‘Strength and Wisdom’. This is recognition, first of all, for your regional
commitment, your leadership, strength of character, your wisdom and the prolific way you led
…. Indeed, the region is stronger and better because of your service,” President Ali said.
“It is my pleasure on behalf of the people of Guyana to hand over this piece to you,” President
Ali told Ambassador LaRocque.
The Guyana Head of State spoke about the numerous benefits that Guyana received under what
the out-going Secretary-General’s decade of stewardship.
“I am sure you and your family will have fond memories of Guyana. But we want you to know
that the people of Guyana welcome you and see you as a Guyanese; after all, we are one
CARICOM people,” President Ali reiterated.
Meanwhile, Dr Carla Natalie Barnett will be the first female to head the 48-year-old regional
integration body formed by the Treaty of Chaguaramas.

Dr. Barnett was born in Belmopan, Belize and is expected to assume office next week.  She was
unanimously selected by the CARICOM Heads of Government in May. She will be the eighth
Secretary-General of CARICOM.
The Caribbean Community is an intergovernmental organisation of 15 member states with
objectives to promote economic integration and cooperation among its members, to ensure
that the benefits of integration are equitably shared, and to coordinate foreign policy.