Guyana has opened its first ever diplomatic mission in Port-of-Spain, which is expected to enhance bilateral relations with Trinidad and Tobago.
The new High Commission, headed by High Commissioner Bishwaishwar ‘Cammie’ Ramsaroop-Maraj, replaces Guyana’s Honorary Consulate in the sister Caricom state.
According to a statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the mandate for the newly-opened High Commission is in line with the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and it is expected to strengthen ties, boost trade and investments between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, while also protecting the interests of Guyanese on the island.
Delivering the keynote address at Wednesday’s opening ceremony, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge contended that the establishment of the High Commission marks a critical step forward for Guyana’s bilateral relations with Trinidad and Tobago.
He also took the opportunity to emphasise Guyana’s commitment to developing economic diplomacy relating to trade and investment, particularly with the emergence of Guyana’s energy industry. “Guyana’s energy industry, fueled by the ExxonMobil oil finds, will no doubt open greater business opportunities for both countries and increased prosperity for our citizens,” Greenidge was quoted as saying in the statement.
Reflecting on the fact that both countries share a rich history spanning several decades, the minister also said, “Our objectives as a diplomatic mission are the strengthening and deepening of our bilateral relations with Trinidad and Tobago as well as furthering our bilateral ties with the other island states of the Caribbean Community.”
“Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have worked closely and diligently together with our partners to tackle pressing issues. Negotiations for an international Criminal Court, the United Nations 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, which is aimed at regulating international trade in conventional arms, are just a few examples of our successful collaborations which has resulted in the adoption of international legal instruments,” Greenidge added.
Among those present at the opening ceremony were Prime Minister of St. Lucia Allan Chastanet, Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago Dennis Moses, other government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.
Other guests included key figures from Trinidad’s business and energy sector and members of the Guyanese diaspora.
