Good evening.
I am pleased to address you this evening as we join the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in commemorating Korea’s National Foundation Day. I do so not only in my own capacity but on behalf of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley, and the Government and People of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
It is clear that Korea was founded on strong fundamentals, a country that quickly arrived at developed nation status within the modern era, serving as an example for countries with similar ambitions such as Trinidad and Tobago.
Ambassador, over the course of the last twelve months Trinidad and Tobago and Korea have worked toward strengthening our relationship. A major development has been the agreement to commence in December 2016 the first round of negotiations of an Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion. The finalization of this tax treaty would serve to boost foreign direct investment and create an atmosphere for increased bilateral economic activity.
In the sphere of education and training, nationals of Trinidad and Tobago continue to enjoy access to scholarships provided by the Korean Government, two of whom were able to begin tertiary-level education in Korea in 2016. Further, an offer has again been extended to an official of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs to attend the Language and Culture Programme in 2017; past participation in this scheme has created awareness of the Korean experience and increased Korean language capacity in our foreign service.
Ambassador, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea continues to employ culture as a vehicle for creating closer ties between both countries. I recall the Unique Taste of Korea, a culinary event held in June of this year that appealed to the tastes of students and officials alike, and the Korea Film Week last held a month earlier. I am certain that tonight’s performances by members of the Korean Traditional Music Association of America will also be well received.
On the regional front, Korea will again host in October of this year the High-Level Forum for Korea-Caribbean Partnership on the theme of “Enhancing the Korea-Caribbean Partnership on Climate Change and Food Security.” While Trinidad and Tobago is unable to participate in this year’s meeting, such opportunities for engagement and meaningful dialogue are always welcomed.
In conclusion, I take this opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to advancing our relationship with the Government of the Republic of Korea. May the People of the Republic of Korea continue to enjoy peace, security and prosperity.
Please join me in a toast to the Government and People of the Republic of Korea in celebration of the National Foundation Day.
Cheers!
