Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good evening,
As you know, the National Budget was read only a short while ago and most of the Government is currently in the House of Representatives.
Notwithstanding, it is a pleasure to join you this evening to celebrate the Fiesta Nacional de España, the National Day of the Kingdom of Spain. The 12th of October holds particular significance for Spain and this year, the occasion is imbued with an added sense of distinction as Spain celebrates its National Day as the reigning FIFA World Cup champions.
The success of the Spanish national team also provides a fitting moment to recognise the enduring ties that have connected Spain with countries across the world, including Trinidad and Tobago. Indeed, the Spanish influence has found expression in aspects of our cultural heritage, our traditions and our society, becoming woven into the rich and diverse character of our multicultural nation. This shared history has provided a foundation upon which a modern relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and Spain has allowed to prosper.
Today, Spain remains an important partner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Our commercial relationship provides a sound basis for further cooperation, with Spain consistently featuring among our most significant trading partners. We therefore are very confident to see these ties stregthen further, including in areas such as energy, infrastructure, maritime affairs and national security.
It is in this spirit of cooperation that in February this year, Trinidad and Tobago had the pleasure of welcoming the Spanish Navy's training vessel, the Juan Sebastián de Elcano, to Port-of-Spain. The visit of this spectacular vessel provided a valuable opportunity to showcase Spain's longstanding maritime tradition while fostering interaction between the crew, our local community and members of the diplomatic and wider national community.
Trinidad and Tobago also values Spain's sustained interest and engagement with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). As the relationship between our region and our European partner continues to grow, we look forward to progressive dialogue and cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Building on this therefore, we are confident and recognize the importance of the multilateralism and the multilateral dimension of our relationship especially as Trinidad and Tobago prepares to assume its seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Your Excellency,
I wish to assure you that as we look ahead, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to further strengthening its relationship with the Kingdom of Spain and in this spirit, I Your Excellency and the Embassy of Spain for your continued efforts to deepen the ties between our peoples.
On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, I extend warm congratulations and best wishes to His Majesty King Felipe VI, the Government and People of the Kingdom of Spain on the occasion of the National Day of Spain.
May the friendship between Trinidad and Tobago and Spain continue to flourish.
I thank you.
