In letters of congratulations sent to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and former President Pedro Pires of Cape, President James Michel has saluted them as proud examples for Africa after they were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and Mo Ibrahim Prize, respectively.
 
In the letter to President Sirleaf, President Michel said: "Your winning of the Nobel Peace Prize is testimony to your unwavering courage, tenacity, depth of commitment and the leadership you have shown in advancing the noble ideals of peace and national reconciliation in your country."
 
The President cited the sharing of the of the award by three women.
 
"I strongly believe that your winning of the Nobel Peace Prize is also a victory for women rights, human rights and democracy, the three major components of the winning formula for any country that seeks growth and positive social transformation," said President Michel in the message to President Sirleaf.
 
In the letter to former President Pires, President Michel highlighted the recognition of the good governance practices being showcased by small island states, adding that the prize was a strong endorsement of the stability and prosperity evident in the Republic of Cape Verde.
 
"Too often the situation of small states is marginalized in international forums. We are pleased that this award gives further recognition to island states, and also provides a further platform for the defence of issues of critical importance for islands including climate change, the need for a fairer development framework for SIDS as well as the need for continental developmental programmes to also take into account the specific needs of SIDS."