LONDON, England (CMC) — Dominica's Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit Wednesday said that the Commonwealth is uniquely placed to advocate on behalf of its members, particularly small states, on issues that threaten their survival such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Addressing a virtual meeting called to share solutions and ways of working that can help to combat the impacts of COVID-19 that has killed more than 473,000 people and infected nearly 10 million, Skerrit said the 54-member grouping must also provide leadership on the issue of debt relief for small states and creative ways to reduce their debt burden.

Skerrit said sadly, while small island developing states like Dominica continue to face several inherent challenges, “the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have further exacerbated difficulties, including the limitation of funds to protect the health and well-being of citizens.

“This is simply because despite our best effort and will power, nothing can happen if resources are not available,” Skerrit said, telling the Commonwealth leaders that Dominica's response to the virus meant that funds which were already earmarked for the 2020 hurricane season had to be re diverted to setting up a COVID-19 hospital and quarantine facilities and to provide relief to those who had lost their jobs

In a statement issued following the conference, the Commonwealth said many member countries are facing unprecedented challenges due to the global health emergency and its economic and social ramifications.

It said these issues combined with the long-term threat of climate change and the ongoing cyclone, and impending hurricane season, means that COVID-19 is seen as a substantial “tipping point” threat that has the potential to push member states into a period of significant crisis if swift and coordinated action is not taken.