BY SHARON AUSTIN | JAN 31, 2024
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and President of the Republic of Senegal, Macky Sall, planting a tree at the National Botanical Gardens, today. (C. Pitt/BGIS)
Two new trees have been planted in the National Botanical Gardens to symbolise Barbados’ friendship with the Republic of Senegal, and further cement the ties between the two countries.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley today planted the Barbados Cedar tree, while President of the Republic of Senegal, Macky Sall, planted a Baobab tree, during a brief tree planting ceremony.
Those in attendance included Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds; Minister of Environment and National Beautification, Green and Blue Economy, Adrian Forde; and Minister of State in the Office of Attorney General with responsibility for Crime Prevention, Corey Lane.
After planting the trees, Ms. Mottley said: “It is important for us to send the signal to all of our citizens and the rest of the world that how we take care of our planet, and how we take care of our surroundings matter.”
The Prime Minister added that it was necessary to take care of the planet so it could continue to provide sustenance to mankind.
President Sall congratulated Prime Minister Mottley for the work being done in the country which emphasises the importance of biodiversity.
He continued: “This park is very special. In Senegal, we will respond to your proposal to take some hectares, maybe two or four, and bring our trees, our plants and give more biodiversity. I know what you are doing is very important for the planet…. We are very proud of what you are doing and your leadership on all matters.”
President Sall arrived in Barbados on Tuesday evening for a two-day official visit, and leaves on Thursday, February 1.
