Senator the Honourable Dr. Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs met with Dr. Khalilur Rahman the newly-appointed, non-resident High Commissioner for the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago on 8th November, 2022 at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs.
The courtesy call took place prior to High Commissioner Rahman’s presentation of his Letters of Credence to Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes O.R.T.T., President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces.
Minister Browne recalled the history of relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh, and noted that there was scope for expanded relations, particularly in the areas of trade and multilateral engagement. High Commissioner Rahman in turn stated that Bangladesh, an emerging economy, could acquire great knowledge in various sectors from Trinidad and Tobago. His Excellency highlighted that there was also opportunity for cooperation between Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh in areas in which Bangladesh is striving, such as manufacturing.
Discussions during the meeting also focused on the issue of climate change. Minister Browne and High Commissioner Rahman both recognised the vulnerability of Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh to climate change and its disastrous effects on both countries. Moreover, on the topic of deepening bilateral relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh, both the Honourable Minister and His Excellency agreed to look into the finalisation of a mechanism for political consultations between Trinidad and Tobago and Bangladesh in order to increase bilateral engagement.
The meeting ended cordially with the Honourable Minister and His Excellency committing to further active engagement on issues of mutual interest in the near future.
