On December 8, 1972, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, along with Barbados, Guyana and Jamaica, established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba in a bold and historic move.
Trinidad and Tobago places importance on the relationship with Cuba and continues to stand in solidarity with Cuba, respecting the resilience of the Cuban people and their clear will for national development.
Today, Senator the Honourable Dr. Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs welcomed His Excellency Gustavo Daniel Veliz Olivare, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to engage in bilateral discussions and to share a celebratory toast at the Ministry’s headquarters, marking the 52nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba as well as CARICOM-Cuba day, both commemorated on 8th December.
Minister Browne expressed his profound appreciation for the deep and flourishing relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba and shared the hope that our nations continue to be consistent partners to the mutual benefit of our peoples. Ambassador Veliz echoed these sentiments, declaring his country’s immense gratitude for Trinidad and Tobago and CARICOM’s continuous voice of solidarity with Cuba in regional and international fora, calling for action in favour of the cause of the Cuban people.
The Minister and the Ambassador also engaged in discussion on avenues to broaden the robust bilateral relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba, whilst appreciating the already significant strides achieved in the fields of health and education. Both parties addressed the recent difficulties faced by Cuba as a result of the natural disasters that have hit the country, which exacerbated infrastructural concerns on that island nation. The Minister pledged to continue exploring possibilities through which the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago might extend aid and assistance to Cuba in time of need.
