Saint Vincent and the Grenadines observes UN Day with two events

The first, a Flag-Raising Ceremony to symbolize solidarity between the Government and the United Nations was held at Government's Administrative Centre.

In addressing the event, Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves lauded the work of the United Nations over its 76 years of existence, as well as Saint Vincent's leadership in the global body, serving as the smallest nation to lead the UN Security Council. Speaking more recently of the UN's humanitarian and recovery support in the wake of the eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano, he praised the UN for its role in raising over USD$11 million through its Global Funding appeal, and for its ongoing efforts to deliver  AS ONE to meet specific needs of the most vulnerable citizens.

When 4,000 families get money every month through Western Union that is the work of the WFP. When 500 vulnerable families are taken care of through psychosocial support that is the work of UNICEF.

Also addressing the ceremony moments before the two flags were hoisted by members of the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, UN Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq lauded the Government's efforts  within the global arena, and particularly the role played as a member of the United Nations. 

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continues to be an outstanding advocate for global cooperation and multilateralism. We welcome your leadership and look forward to our continued partnership in this regard.

Following the Flag Raising Ceremony, the UN RC travelled to the Rabacca Valley in the Red Zone, where he was joined by Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar for a tree planting initiated to reforest areas affected by ashfall. He also toured a site where temporary pre-fab homes were being built to relocate over 60 impacted families. The RC observed that the greenery and clear ocean symbolized hope and was a far cry from the devastation he had witnessed six months ago.