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Bilateral Relations

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  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in 1962
    Diplomatic Representation The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in New Delhi, India is accredited to India.

    The High Commission of the Republic of India in Port of Spain, Trinidad is accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports Iron and steel, anhydrous ammonia, copper-zinc based articles, clothing, aromatic bitters, lubricating oil base stock, plywood, waste of iron and steel, indented iron bars and rods, and piles pickets.
    Imports Pharmaceuticals, shelled cashew nuts, tubes and pipes, tyres for Buses, woven fabrics, floor coverings, tea, diamonds, other Precious and semi-precious stones, fabrics, turmeric, leather, plants and fruits.
    Balance of Trade TT$ Trinidad and Tobago at present experiences a positive balance of  Trade with India.
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2004 105,353,933 174,375,528 -690, 215, 95
    2005 126, 942, 73 231,973,995 -219,279,722
    2006 3,533,175 320,193,928 -316,660,753
    2007 493,114,700 297,275,253 195,839,447
    2008 (Jan-Jun) 512,629,265 176,543,445 336,085,820
    2009 232,043,363 78,820,360 153,223,003
    Source: Central Statistical Agency, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to India
    2010 The Honourable Dr. Lenny Saith, Minister visit for Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in News Delhi in January.

    Parliamentary Delegation led by Senator the Honourable Danny Montano,
    President of the Senate participated in the 20th Conference of Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers in New Delhi in January.
    2008 Business Delegation from Lake Asphalt Ltd. Visited India
    2007 Official visit by a Parliamentary Delegation headed by the Honourable Barendra Sinanan visited India in February.

    The Honourable Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry led a Trade and Investment Mission to India (New Delhi and Mumbai) in March.

    Parliamentary delegation headed by Dr. Eastlyne McKenzie, MP, Represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 53rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference & 1st Commonwealth Women Parliamentary Conference in September.
    2006  Minister Dr. Lenny Saith represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 4th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas Conference in Hyderabad in January.
    2003 The Honourable Dr. Lenny Saith, Minister and Senator Pundit Maniedeo Persad et al represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 1st Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Conference in New Delhi in January.

    The Honourable Barendra Sinanan, MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 4th International Parliamentary Conference in January.
    1997 State visit by the Honourable Basdeo Panday, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
    1985 State visit by the Honourable George Chambers, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
    1966 State visit by the Honourable Dr. Eric Williams, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago

    From India to The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
    2009 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and delegation participated in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Port of Spain in November 2009.

    The largest ever business/investor mission from India H.E Pundit Maniedeo Persad, High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago to India in June 2009. Business delegates participated/exhibited in the 10th Trade and Investment Convention at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya, Trinidad.
    2008 Pundit Maniedeo Persad, High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago to India led a business/investor mission from India in July 2008.
    2007 Shri Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs of the Republic of India visited in June.
    2006 State visit by H.E the Honorable Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Vice-President of the Republic of India in November.
    2005 Visit of Mr. J.C Sharma, Speaker of the Representatives of India.

    Visit of Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs visited in May.
    2004 Visit by Mr. J.C Sharma, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.
    2002 Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Rajiv Pratap Reddy led a trade and Investment Mission to Trinidad and Tobago and Latin American countries
    2000 Visit by the Indian Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, Mr.Ajit Panja.
    1995 Visit of the President of India, Shri Dr. Shanker Dayal Sharma to Trinidad for 29 May to 1 June
    1968 State visit by Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi to Trinidad.
       
    Bilateral Agreements
    2007 Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment
    2003 Agreement for the establishment of an Inter-Governmental Commission on Political, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation.
    1999 Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes and Income.
    1997 Memorandum of Understanding on Consultation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago and the Ministry of External Affairs of India.
    1997 Agreement on Technical Cooperation
    1997 Trade Agreement
    1991 Protocol for the Establishment of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation in Trinidad and Tobago
    1987 Cultural Cooperation Agreement
       
    CARICOM-India Relations
    In November 2003 the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat signed an Agreement wit the Ministry of External Affairs of India to establish a CARICOM-India Joint Commission on Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination to enhance CARICOM-India relations. Since 1993, high level officials from CARICOM and Japan

    The inaugural meeting was convened in August 2005 and the following areas were identified for cooperation: health, disaster response and information and communications technology.
       
    Technical Cooperation
    Trinidad and Tobago has benefited from offers of training in India under the Government International Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) Programme, Government of India Scholarship programme and the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation.
       
    Cultural Exchanges
    From Trinidad and Tobago to India
    2009 The Trinidad and Tobago Entertainment Company brought a group of  performers to India including 3 Canal, the Codrington Pan Family, Calypsonians and dancers. In collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations they performed in Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai as well as Agra in November.
    2007 The Ministry of Culture sponsored a group of cultural artistes that accompanied Minister Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry during his Asia Trade Mission to Delhi and Mumbai in March. Performances included steel pan, soca, calypso and chutney songs and dancing.

    The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in New Delhi co-sponsored the T&TEC Nada Sangama Steel Orchestra visit to India in May-June. The group comprises steel pan musicians well versed in Indian classical and mainstream music on pan.
    2006 The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in New Delhi hosted a Ramayan conference in New Delhi to showcase Indo-Trinidadian Hindu culture.
    2004 The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in New Delhi hosted the first ever Carnival celebrations in New Delhi featuring carnival costumes and music (Mar.) and Divali celebrations in New Delhi (Nov.) to showcase Indo-Trinidadian traditions in Trinidad and Tobago.
    From India to Trinidad and Tobago
    The Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Trinidad organises numerous performances by groups from India and courses on subjects of Indian culture such as dance, Hindi language and music instruction.

    Private sector organizations frequently organise live entertainment shows featuring famous actors, singers and dancers from India throughout the year.
       
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes
    Visa required for Indian nationals Yes

  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in September, 1983
    Diplomatic Representation The Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner in New Delhi is accredited to Bangladesh.

    The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Ottawa is accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.

    The Honorary Consul of Bangladesh to Trinidad and Tobago is Mr. Razai Rahaman.
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports roasted coffee, ethyl alcohol, rum, fresh garlic, fish lubricating oils Food preparation, sugar confectionery, motor vehicle seats, oil-Well cement and cigarettes.
    Imports apparel, sacks and bags, ceiling fans, tarpaulins, yogurts, sacks of Bag jute, journals, flavoured waters, sandals and slippers.
    Balance of Trade TT$
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2004 1,360,583 1,280,524 80,059
    2005 3,819,298 2,126,421 1,692,877
    2006 8,490,578 3,365,353 5125,225
    2007 14,130162 4,600,345 9,529,817
    2008 954,672 4,404,634 -3,449,962
    2009 622,000 54,699,443 -54,077,443
    Source: Central Statistical Office, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From Bangladesh to The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
    2009 The Minister of Foreign Affairs attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Port of Spain in November 2009
       
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Bangladesh nationals No
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes

  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in November 1971
    Diplomatic Representation The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in New Delhi is accredited to The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

    The Honorary Consul of the Republic of Sri Lanka to Trinidad and Tobago is Mr. Krishna Seegobin.
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From Sri Lanka to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
    Nov. 2009 High Commissioner His Excellency Mr. Nanayakkara Atulugamage Chandra Nihal De Silva Jayasinghe and the Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Amaralal Sumith Nakandala based in London represented participated in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Port of Spain from 22 to 29 November 2009.
    June 2009 Trinidad and Tobago’s High Commissioner to India with Accreditation to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Pundit Maniedeo Persad led a Trade Mission to Trinidad and Tobago which included private sector companies from Sri Lanka.
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports iron, steel, methanol, bars, rods, rum and aromatic Bitters
    Imports tea, denatured spirits, beverages and parts for valves
    Balance of Trade TT$
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2005 589,127 6,529,185 -5,940,058
    2006 1,104,760 10,033,949 -8,929,189
    2007 14,856 6,688,591 -6,673,735
    2008 ---- 1,063,927 -1,063,927
    2009 9,075 1,568,271 -1,559,196
    Source: Central Statistical Office, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
     
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Sri Lankan nationals Yes
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes

  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in December 1971
    Diplomatic Representation The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in New Delhi is accredited to The Republic of Singapore.

    Singapore does not have a mission accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports Lubricating greases, other petroleum products, fuel, oils, bunker ‘c’ grade fuel, photocopiers, steel- band instruments, rock drill parts and line pipe of iron.
    Imports gas, oil, cars, condensed milk, ghee, brochures and vegetable oils.
    Balance of Trade TT$
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2004 142,615,460 53,006,632 -89,608,828
    2005 166,394,200 5,232,100 -161,162,100
    2006 233,824,200 2,516,100 -231,308,100
    2007 167,371,100 199,820,000 32,448,900
    2008 5,570,025 15,437,228 9,867,203
    Source: Central Statistical Agency, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From Trinidad and Tobago to Singapore
    2009 The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in New Delhi represented Trinidad and Tobago at the Latin Asia Biz Forum in September
    2008 Minister of Public Administration, Mr. Kennedy Swaratsingh visited in December

    The Honourable Dr. Lenny Saith, Minister of Trade and Industry et al represented Trinidad and Tobago at the Latin Asia Biz Forum in September
    From Singapore to The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
    2009 The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Port of Spain in November 2009
    2008 High Commissioner Pundit Maniedeo Persad led a Trade and Investment Mission to Trinidad and Tobago during the period June, 2008 represented the following sectors: health, information, information communication technology, tourism, pharmaceuticals, textiles, downstream chemicals, ship-building, petroleum products and steel.
       
    Technical Cooperation
    Singapore extends offers of training to nationals of Trinidad and Tobago annually in the form of full degrees or short courses.
     
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Singapore nationals No
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes

  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in 12 October 1973
    Diplomatic Representation The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in New Delhi is accredited to Indonesia.

    The Embassy on Indonesia in Caracas, Venezuela is accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.

    The Honorary Consul of Indonesia to Trinidad and Tobago is Mr. Ian Anthony.
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From Trinidad and Tobago to Indonesia
    1975 State visit by Prime Minister, Dr. Eric Williams
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports Iron and Steel, electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof, sound recorders, footwear, gaiters and other commodities.
    Imports glass and glassware, Machinery and mechanical appliances parts, and ships, boats and floating structures.
    Balance of Trade TT$
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2004      
    2005 589,127 6,529,185 -5,940,058
    2006 1,104,760 10,033,949 -8,929,189
    2007 14,856 6,688,591 -6,673,735
    2008 (Jan-Oct) ---- 1,063,927 -1,063,927
    Source: Ministry of Trade and Industry, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
       
    Technical Cooperation
    Indonesia has extends offers of training to nationals of Trinidad and Tobago annually in the form of full degrees or short courses.
     
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Indonesia nationals Yes
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes

  • Diplomatic Relations
    Diplomatic Relations Established in June 1964
    Diplomatic Representation The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in New Delhi, India is accredited to Japan.

    The Embassy of Japan in Port of Spain is accredited to Trinidad and Tobago.
       
    Economic Relations
    Exports raw cocoa beans, natural asphalt, steel band instruments and aromatic bitters.
    Imports vehicles and iron products.
    Balance of Trade TT$
    Year Exports Imports Balance
    2004 4,806,900 970,046,900 -965,240,000
    2005 4,223,200 1,099,312,100 -1,095,088,800
    2006 452,456.677 1,418,991,315 -966,534,638
    2007 473,793,775 1,664,881,262 -1,191,087,487
    2008 817,032,450 2,023,451,143 -1,206,418,693
    2009 (Jan to April) 1,726,069 261,076,734 -259,350,665
    Source: Central Statistical Agency, Trinidad and Tobago
    TT$ 6.3 = US$ 1 approximately
       
    Exchange of Visits
    From Trinidad and Tobago to Japan
    2005 Visit by Minister of Planning and Development, Mrs. Camille Robinson-Regis
    1985 State visit by Prime Minister George Chambers and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Trade and Industry
    1975 State Visit by Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams and Minister of Trade and Industry Errol Mahabir
    1974 State visit by Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams.
    From Japan to The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
    2007 Trinidad and Tobago was privileged to host two internationally Renowed jazz musicians Ms. Haruko Nara and the equally talented composer and performer Mr.Gino Sitson.
    2004 Trinidad and Tobago and Japan celebrated the fortieth anniversary Of the establishment of diplomatic relations
    2002 Trinidad and Tobago organized “Japan Week” which offered enlightening presentations of Japanese Poster Art, demonstrations of Ikebana or flower arranging.
       
    Technical Cooperation
    Trinidad and Tobago is a beneficiary of technical cooperation from the Government of Japan under the following programmes:
     -  Grant Aid for Fisheries Development
     -  Grassroots Assistance Programme
     -  Japan overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV)-Eastern Caribbean countries only.
     -  Project –type Technical Cooperation.
     -  Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) programmes
     -  Cultural Grant Aids Projects.
     -  Cultural Grant Aid for Grassroots Projects.
     -  Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship- for Post- Graduate Study only.
     -  The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET).
     -  The “Young Leaders” Invitation Programme (for CARICOM Member States)
     -  Journalists Invitation Programme.

    Cultural exchanges between the two countries have been ongoing for several years. Steel-bands from Trinidad and Tobago, such as Exodus and BP Renegades have visited Japan
     
    CARICOM/Japan Relations
    Since 1993, high level officials from CARICOM and Japan have engaged in annual Consultations, held alternatively in the Caribbean and in Japan. Meetings of the CARICOM-Japan Consultation Mechanism have been held regularly since that date, reflecting the determination of both sides to strengthen their relationship and deepen their levels of cooperation. This forum provide for political dialogue as well as providing access to a technical assistance package from Japan for the CARICOM region.
     
    Consular Relations
    Visa required for Japan nationals Yes
    Visa required for Trinidad and Tobago nationals Yes