On this auspicious day in history, Senator the Honourable Dr. Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and His Excellency Rodolfo Solano Quirós, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of the Republic of Costa Rica, join together with great pleasure, to celebrate the significant milestone of the fiftieth (50th) anniversary of bilateral relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Costa Rica.
Since the establishment of relations in 1971, Trinidad and Tobago and Costa Rica have built upon the bonds of friendship and cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral, levels. Our diplomatic relationship has thrived through mutual commitment to dialogue, collaboration and trade cooperation.
Our countries continued to enhance our trade relationship utilising the CARICOM-Costa Rica Free Agreement, while undertaking numerous commercial endeavours through participation in Government and Private sector - led trade expositions, business tours and investment initiatives over the years. The expansion of our local businesses into each other’s markets bears further testament to our fruitful economic relations.
Our countries also share a unique cultural connection brought forth through common elements of our ancestral roots. It is a linkage that today, transcends geographical borders, often emerging though our shared love for calypso music, Caribbean food, fashion, art and one of the greatest displays of colour and unity in diversity – our annual Carnival celebrations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for greater global partnership amongst nations toward the fair and equitable distribution of resources. As we chart the uncertain terrain of a post-COVID-19 society, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the Republic of Costa Rica take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to enhancing our mutual ties of friendship, cooperation and collaboration toward the well-being of both our peoples.
