New Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago presents Letter of Credence to AUC Chairperson

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 5 July, 2013: The Ambassador of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Uganda and Permanent Representative to the AU, with residence in Kampala, Uganda, H.E. Mr. Patrick Edwards has today 5 July 2013, presented his letter of Credence to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma.

H.E. Mr. Patrick Edwards brought special greetings from the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, H.E. Kamla Persad-Bissessar. According to the Ambassador, Trinidad and Tobago feels very much part of the Diaspora community which is cosidered the sixth region of the African Union. He recounted the deep-rooted connections that exist between his country, which is part of the Caribbean, and Africa since the days of colonialism.

“Establishing diplomatic relations with Africa is part of the mission to bring the Caribbean closer to Africa, in order to create a new renaissance, as Africa arises,” Ambassador Edwards stated.

He also took the opportunity to explain to Dr. Dlamini Zuma the existing opportunities for cooperation between Trinidad and Tobago and Africa, in the oil and gas field where his country has over 167 years of experience. He said his country stands ready to help and share experiences in exploration, in order to avoid potential pitfalls. Already, his country is providing training in this area in Uganda, while it is advising the governments of Ghana and Tanzania. He also talked about other areas of potential collaboration and encouraged the establishment of commercial air links.

The AUC Chairperson, Dr. Dlamini Zuma congratulated Ambassador Edwards, saying the feeling of getting closer to the Caribbean and strengthening ties was mutual. She noted with appreciation the important role that the Caribbeans played in decolonization and the fight against apartheid in Africa. “You are not just doing diplomatic relations, but also reconnecting our roots,” she added.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma expressed the Commission’s readiness to facilitate experience-sharing with sisters and brothers in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly at this time when Africa is looking forward to industrializing and modernizing the continent.