"His gritty resolve on such matters as the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), the illegal drug trade and air transportation, exemplified his commitment and passion for his country and the wider Caribbean," she said in a news release.
Persad-Bissessar said Thompson had "already made his mark in the Caricom family with his cogent arguments, firm resolve and pleasant manner. Prime Minister Thompson's death has denied the people of all Caricom nations of the opportunity to benefit from his wisdom and vision."
Persad-Bissessar said she and Thompson belonged to the legal profession and it was "one that he served with great distinction."
Thompson was the third Prime Minister of Barbados to pass away while in office. Tom Adams and Errol Barrow both died in the 1980s.
Thompson died Saturday morning.
Read related story: New PM takes office in Barbados following death of PM David Thompson
Opposition Leader Keith Rowley expressed shock on learning of Thompson's death.
"Even though we knew of his very serious health challenges, we still held out hope for some form of recovery. It is in this context that his passing has come as a shock to us here in Trinidad and Tobago.
"We know that his death will bring a feeling of grief and great loss to the people of Barbados. In this time of sadness, we extend our deepest sympathy to our brothers and sisters in Barbados and will like to let them know that we, too, share your pain and any feeling of unfulfilment for one gone too soon.
"We specifically extend our condolence to the Thompson family, in the acknowledgement that another gentle son of Barbados has made his contribution, left his mark and has moved on, in the satisfaction of knowing that we are all better off for having had him for that period of time that we knew him.
"The Caribbean is a poorer place without David Thompson."
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