Port of Spain: 19TH JULY, 2017
Senator the Honourable Dennis Moses, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs commended France on taking a leading role on the global stage in dealing with environmental issues of importance to Small Island Developing States such as Trinidad and Tobago. These sentiments were expressed during a reception held in celebration of the French National Day – Bastille Day – on 14th July, 2017 hosted by His Excellency Héidi Picquart, Ambassador of the French Republic to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Commenting on the perpetration of a number of attacks carried out on French soil in recent times, the Honourable Minister underscored that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has joined with the international community in condemning these attacks which infringe on the fundamental rights and freedoms enjoyed in a democratic society. Senator the Honourable Dennis Moses also indicated that France’s resilience in combatting these incidents has shown that the inherent joie de vivre embodied in the French spirit cannot be dimmed.
Additionally, Minister Moses highlighted the exemplary bilateral relations that exist between Trinidad and Tobago and France since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1962. The Minister underlined that Trinidad and Tobago and France have had the opportunity to collaborate in a wide range of sectors including health, water management, aviation, education, construction, culture and crime and security. He stated that it was his hope that Trinidad and Tobago and France continue to mutually benefit from the sharing of our rich cultures and move towards deeper collaboration in the future.
During his address, His Excellency Héidi Picquart, Ambassador of the French Republic reflected on the universal ideals of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity associated with the French Revolution of 1789. Ambassador Picquart also focussed on the challenges of climate change and transnational crime, which he highlighted as critical issues affecting Trinidad and Tobago, France and the world at large. Further, His Excellency cited the close cultural ties between Trinidad and Tobago and France paying particular reference to Trinidad and Tobago’s, Calypso Rose, who experienced great success in France where she was awarded a Victoire de la Musique in February this year.
Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs
Click to view official media release- Trinidad and Tobago commends France on its leadership role on matters of relevance to Small Island Developing States
