BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, November 7, 2018 (Press Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister) – The Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris-led Government has extended warm greetings to citizens and residents in St. Kitts and Nevis of Indian descent who are today, November 07, 2018 observing the Diwali holiday – one of the most significant festivals in Indian culture.
 
The Diwali holiday celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. It coincides with the Hindu New Year.
 
In an address to mark the occasion, Prime Minister Harris said the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis “stand in solidarity with you, for although we speak and worship in different ways, what motivates us – such as our bright hopes for the world and our ambitious dreams for our families’ futures – remains the same.”
 
The St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister noted that his Team Unity Government embrace and endorse the very things that Diwali celebrates and upholds: inter-faith harmony, peace and justice. 
 
“We affirm these cherished values, which are instrumental in preserving a peaceful, prosperous and happy St. Kitts and Nevis where everyone is free to flourish and contribute in a constructive manner to the country’s social and economic development. Here, cultural diversity is valued for its role in accelerating economic opportunity for local families through the introduction of new businesses, ideas, people, skills and technologies.” 
 
Prime Minister Harris further commended the significant contributions of the Indian community in advancing our nation-building efforts and prosperity agenda here in St. Kitts and Nevis, and noted that “the Diwali festivities present an opportune time for your further involvement, particularly in uplifting the most vulnerable members of our society.”