Virgin Islands Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has extended deepest condolences to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the passing of Sir James Fitz-Allen Mitchell at the age of 90. Photo: Internet Source

Hon Fahie in a statement today November 23, 2021, said he was saddened to learn about the passing of the SVG leader Sir James Fitz-Allen Mitchel.

Hon Fahie in a statement today November 23, 2021, said, “Today I was saddened to learn of the passing of The Right Honourable Sir James Fitz-Allen Mitchell, KCMG, PC, former Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines."

“Over the course of his long and distinguished political career, Sir James made tremendous contributions to achieving the political independence, economic stability and growth and development of his beloved country of birth.”

Premier Fahie went on to list the political history of Sir James and noted that he has was an ardent supporter of Caribbean regional integration and well as regional food security.

Sir James had keen interest in food security - Premier

“Sir James maintained a keen interest in agriculture as a trained Agronomist and helped to create the Caribbean Agricultural Regional Development Institute (CARDI). He was passionate about the empowerment of citizens as food producers to feed themselves and their country, and this was reflected in his policy positions.”

Hon Fahie recalled his appeal at the 1st Caribbean Agricultural Technology Conference in 2000, “Agriculture must thrive,” remains relevant today more than ever.

“Sir James was also an ardent supporter of regional integration in the Caribbean and advocated for unity and cooperation among the people of the region as critically important for their mutual development in an increasingly globalized world,” Hon Fahie further noted.

"Bonds of friendship' will remain strong - Premier

Hon Fahie said the bonds of friendship between the people of the Virgin Islands and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will continue to remain strong and together as both counties mourn the loss of one of the region’s great leaders.

“On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, I extend deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sir James and the Government and people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,” he said in closing.