PORT OF SPAIN: 30TH JANUARY, 2023
Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Acting Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, participated in a reception hosted by Mr. Raju Sharma, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the High Commission of India, on the occasion of the celebration of the 74th Anniversary of the Republic Day of the Republic of India. The reception to commemorate the occasion was held on 26th January, 2023 at the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre.
Minister Gopee-Scoon delivered remarks as the Chief Guest at the reception, commenting that the occasion offered an opportunity to demonstrate the enduring friendship and ties between Trinidad and Tobago and India. The Acting Minister’s remarks included highlights of the relationship including: the donation in April 2021 by the Government of India of 40 thousand doses of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccines; the commemoration in 2022 of 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations and; the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme’s offering of quality training opportunities.
Both the Honourable Minister and Mr. Sharma commented on the significant people and cultural connections which continue to be valuable contributors to the strong ties between the two countries. The commonalities between Trinidad and Tobago and India, particularly in shared aspects of life among the peoples of both countries including traditions, food and entertainment such as cricket were mentioned. The remarks also reflected on the shared commitment of Trinidad and Tobago and India to advancing efforts toward cooperation, collaboration and inclusiveness in engaging at the bilateral and multilateral arenas.
