External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a series of high-level engagements in Trinidad and Tobago during his official visit, focusing on bilateral cooperation, education, cultural ties and regional partnerships.
Upon his arrival, Jaishankar said he was looking forward to a productive two-day visit after receiving a warm welcome from Foreign Minister Sean Sobers. During the trip, he met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues.
Jaishankar also joined Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar at a ceremony distributing 'Made in India' laptops to schoolchildren in Trinidad and Tobago. The initiative fulfilled a commitment made earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was described as a step towards expanding learning opportunities and awareness among students.
Speaking at a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Jaishankar highlighted the historic relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago, noting that shared history, anti-colonial struggles and a common passion for cricket have shaped the partnership.
The minister also announced the conclusion of agreements covering tourism cooperation, solarisation of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs building, Quick Impact Projects and the establishment of an Ayurveda Chair.
Jaishankar was welcomed at the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago, where he thanked Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar for her remarks during the reception.
Adding a cultural dimension to the visit, the minister met legendary West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, who also attended the flag-raising ceremony. The Trinidad and Tobago visit marked the final leg of Jaishankar's three-nation Caribbean tour after engagements in Jamaica and Suriname.