Oct - Nov 2009 - High Commission for the Republic of Trinidad ...

Volume 44 October - November, 2009
www.tthighcommission.co.uk

Cover : Brian Lara and Dwight Yorke at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission,
London. Back page: Lit deyas at the Divali celebrations at the TTHC.
Photos by Donald Chambers
From the Office
of the Prime
Minister
Eid and Divali
celebrated at the
High Commission
PAGE 4
PAGE 12
CHOGM 2009
Eye on Trade
PAGE 6
PAGE 14
National Academy of
Performing Arts opens
in Trinidad and Tobago
TTHC welcomes new
Attachés.
PAGE 8
PAGE 22
Product of the High Commission for
the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, London

NEWS
LONDON MISSION 3
Message from His Excellency Professor George Maxwell Richards
TC, CMT, Ph.D, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
on the Occasion of Divali, 2009
Fellow Citizens
Both Roysie Ganpat and Reshma
Mituram, hardly known to many
of us, writing in the years 2001
and 2002, respectively, have
provided inspiration, through their
poems, for the message that I am
led to give to the nation on the
occasion of Divali 2009.
The common theme is holding on
to the symbolism of Divali as guide
for living throughout the
year. Both writers have lauded
several of the elements associated
with this festival, most sacred to
Hindus, embracing the material
aspects which provoke the
emotions and spiritual dimension
that come to the fore.
Introducing the piece with a
physical yet, at the same time,
spiritual note, Ganpat points to
the fasting, then cleaning,
shopping, dressing, cooking,
singing and the lighting of deyas
and exclaims ‗Excitement is what
it brings me…Joy is what it brings
me…Infinite peace is what it
brings me.‖
But as the day ends and the lights
go out, there is the funereal gloom
of picking up the ‗dead deyas‘ and
removing the ‗bent
bamboo‘. One can relate to the
sadness, until, like a flash of light,
one remembers that the time of
the lights will come again, next
year and the writer pens:
‗Renewed hope is what it brings
me‘ and exhorts us to give thanks.
Then Mituram opens with a wish
that the day of celebration would
never end and goes on to express
the joy and happiness overflowing
to tears, the music and laughter,
fusing in such a way, that the
writer is impelled, by the
giddiness of pure joy and love, to
reach out to all humanity, in an act
of sharing.
She writes that ‗for a moment
pain, anger, hate, greed, envy
and all the evils of this world are
forgotten and this moment is as
long as eternity.‘
One can imagine her, in seeming
anguish, as she hopes that the day,
the moment, the feeling could last
forever, ending as she had begun.
This brings to mind the
responsibility that every one of us
has, individually and as part of a
community, to be channels for the
joy, the love and the peace and to
not just deter, but eschew the
negative emotions that tend to
imprison us in our relations with
one another.
So indeed, Divali is a celebration
that occurs once a year. But could
we not make respect for
humanity, goodwill towards all
and hope in our collective ability
to shape better lives for all of us -
elements that are inherent in this
festival - a way of life that reaches
its zenith in the day that we call
Divali?
I believe that there is much to
occupy our thoughts in those
simple but profound writings,
which I do not consider to have
been chance offerings of the
Muses. The considerations are by
no means new, but I believe that it
is propitious that I place them
before you, at this time, in the
particular times of our nation.
Happy Divali to all!
May God bless our nation!
George Maxwell Richards

4 LONDON MISSION
NEWS
Message to the nation from the Honourable Patrick Manning,
Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on the
Thirty-Third Anniversary of Republic Day of Trinidad and Tobago.
My Fellow Citizens
As we celebrate the thirty-third anniversary of our
status as a Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, like the
rest of the world, is facing the challenge of an
economic slowdown, brought about by the recent
near collapse of the global financial economy. Very
early, the government took measures to protect our
country from the adverse effects of this
international crisis. Our decisions were very
effective and whilst the return to acceptable levels
of growth is not quite complete, we are on the way
once again.
However, we are not there yet. The global crisis is
by no means over and could easily slip back into
recessionary conditions which would affect
Trinidad and Tobago and every other country on
earth. We must move carefully forward, exercising
restraint, spending but saving, working harder and
being more disciplined in all areas of our lives.
In short, we must live up to the responsibilities of
being the Republic that we celebrate today. In the
present circumstances, we have a very stark
reminder of the responsibility that came when we,
very appropriately, consolidated our sovereignty by
becoming a Republic. It is we and we alone who
can build or destroy ourselves. There is no one out
there to stretch a hand when we stumble. A
Republic like Trinidad and Tobago must be able to
pull itself up by its own inner strength when visited
by adversity. Without that capacity, the significance
of self-determination is considerably diminished.
I know that our country is capable. We have had
our trials and emerged with greater strength. All
citizens have always put their shoulders to the
wheel for the revitalization of our society. I have no
doubt that they will again rise to the occasion.
The government will play its part. Our new budget
demonstrates the prioritization, restraint, and
creative allocations that are the product of the
discernment needed for these times. We will
maintain a momentum as we make this crossing.
We will ensure the continuing growth of the
economy through diversification, increased
investment and enlarged markets. We will ensure
high levels of employment and the availability of
opportunity to all citizens for growth and
development. With our revenues, we will educate
the children, improve the health services, ensure
housing for all, further reduce poverty, strengthen
our communities and enhance the security and
stability of the nation. We will preserve our
constitutionally guaranteed freedoms and
fundamental human rights. We will join with likeminded
countries to ensure that this present global
situation produces an international system that is
characterized by greater justice and equality. In all
these ways, we will indeed measure up to the
responsibility of being the Republic of Trinidad and
Tobago.
On behalf of the government, I extend greetings to
our citizens on the celebration of Republic Day
2009.
May Almighty God Bless our Nation.

NEWS
LONDON MISSION 5
T
rinidad and Tobago is again
privileged to join with the
global Islamic community in the
annual celebration of Eid ul Fitr.
Our adherents of Islam have kept the
faith alive ever since they arrived in
this country in the nineteenth
century. Their discipline, devotion
and high ethical standards,
epitomised by fasting and fervent
prayer during the holy month of
Ramadan, have contributed
enormously to building the
foundations of an independent
Trinidad and Tobago, and continue
to be a very significant force in
national development.
This approach is greatly needed as,
with the rest of the world, we
struggle to emerge from the impact
of a global economic slowdown. We
must be guided more than ever by
self-restraint, industry, thrift,
charity and a sense of community,
characteristics espoused by our
Above: The Hon. Jerry Narace
Minister o Health
Message to the nation from the Honourable Patrick Manning,
Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on the
occasion of Eid 2009.
Muslim family. If not, we will lose
the opportunity to develop the
greater national strength and
cohesion that are absolutely
necessary due to the uncertainties
that all nations face in the course of
their development.
We are extremely fortunate in
Trinidad and Tobago to be so
intimately exposed to the main
religious cultures of humankind.
There is so much knowledge to
better equip oneself to navigate the
storms of life; to lead individuals to
constructive and purposeful living;
and to find fulfilment and play a
meaningful role in the progress of
one‘s community and country.
Perhaps most important of all is the
fact that this national environment,
which has been part of the
upbringing of every citizen, has very
significantly influenced the
exemplary harmony of our diverse
society.
T
he Senate passed the Tobacco
C o n t r o l B i l l w i t h
amendments on Tuesday 17
November, 2009. The bill was passed
with 22 senators voting for it while
seven senators abstained.
According to the Minister of Health,
the Honourable Jerry Narace, this
Bill, ―provides an effective legal
framework necessary to address the
harm caused by tobacco products both
All citizens of this country should
capitalise on the opportunity to have
a sufficiently in-depth knowledge of
some of the major forces of human
civilisation that are thriving right
here at home. Our diversity, which
prepared us early for the
multiculturalism of globalisation,
provides us with a unique
opportunity for even more profound
education.
The Muslim Community of Trinidad
and Tobago, continues its very great
contribution to the progress and
stability of our country. It is an
assurance that, as we go forward,
this nation will continue to be a
secure and stable society for all our
citizens.
On behalf of the government, I
extend Eid Greetings to all. May
Almighty God continue to bless our
nation.
Trinidad and Tobago Senate passes landmark Tobacco Bill
for our citizens today and the
generations to come.
For details on the Bill and to view upto-date
news from the Government of
Trinidad and Tobago, please visit
www.ttconnect.gov.tt.
Please see article on page 8,
introducing ttconnect - ‗Government
at your Service ‗.

6 LONDON MISSION
NEWS
H
er Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of England and
His Royal Highness The Prince Phillip, The
Duke of Edinburgh paid a State Visit to the Republic of
Trinidad and Tobago from 26th - 28th November, 2009
on the occasion of the 2009 Commonwealth Heads of
Government Meeting (CHOGM), held in Port of Spain
during the period 27th – 29th November, 2009.
Left: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HE President George Maxwell
Richards are saluted by the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment, prior to the
departure of Her Majesty and His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in her capacity as Head
of the Commonwealth of Nations delivered the keynote
address at the Opening Ceremony of CHOGM on 27th
November, 2009.
While in Trinidad and Tobago, the Royals also
participated in a laying of a wreath ceremony at the
Cenotaph, Memorial Park; viewed floral and craft
exhibits; attended a cultural youth rally at Queen‘s
Hall; and were hosted by Their Excellencies, Professor
George Maxwell Richards and Dr. Jean Ramjohn-
Richards for a State Dinner.
This was the third State Visit by Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II of England and His Royal Highness The
Prince Phillip, The Duke of Edinburgh to Trinidad and
Tobago. The previous visits were during the period 7th
– 9th February, 1966 and 1st – 3rd November, 1985.
Successful CHOGM
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II participated in CHOGM
2009, which has been deemed by attending heads of
state as an unqualified success. Notable highlights of the
Meeting included:
The welcoming a of a new member - Rwanda;
Accord being reached on climate change;
A reaffirmation of the values and principles of the
Commonwealth; and
For the first time, non-Commonwealth leaders
attended the metting, among them the French
President, the Honourable Nicolas Sarkozy,
Danish Prime Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen
and United Nations General Secretary, H.E.Ban
Ki-Moon.
Above: Danish Prime Minister, the Hon. Lars Løkke
Rasmussen ,Commonwealth Secretary General, H.E.
Kamalesh Sharma, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime
Minister, the Hon. Patrick Manning at the press
conference.
Climate Change Consensus
With the upcoming United Nations Climate Change
Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, scheduled for
December 2009, climate change was the major focus of
CHOGM 2009. Hence the participation of non-
Commonwealth world leaders, who were eager to
establish a consensus on the important matter before
gathering in Denmark.
At a press conference held in Port of Spain, Trinidad and
Tobago‘s Prime Minister, the Hon. Patrick Manning,
along with Commonwealth Secretary General, H.E.
Kamalesh Sharma, United Nations Secretary General,
H.E. Ban Ki-Moon, Danish Prime Minister, the Hon.
Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Australia‘s Prime Minister,
the Hon. Kevin Rudd, the announcement was made that
a resolution on climate change had been reached - The
Port of Spain Climate Change Consensus;
Commonwealth Declaration, 2009.
Prime Minister Rudd stated that this consensus would
go a long way to bringing about a comprehensive and
legally binding agreement in Copenhagen.
Prime Minister Manning and the people of Trinidad and
Tobago received lavish praise for their part in fostering
such an agreement and for successfully hosting CHOGM
2009.

NEWS
LONDON MISSION 7
Above: The National Academy of Performing Arts Centre at Princes Building Grounds, Port of Spain. Centre: The lights and fountain
display at the Academy. Right: Prime Minister Patrick Manning unveils the plaque for the Academy.
T
he official launch of the $480 million National
Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) took
place on Monday November 9 th , 2009. The building is
located at old Prince‘s Building Grounds, Queen‘s Park
East, Port of Spain, and can accommodate more than
1,200 guests. Among the attendees were Their
Excellencies, Professor George Maxwell Richards,
President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Dr.
Jean Ramjohn-Richards, Prime Minister, the Honourable
Patrick Manning and Senator the Honourable Mrs. Hazel
Manning, His Excellency Yang You Ming , Ambassador of
the People Republic of China, Mr. Calder Hart, Executive
Chairman of UDeCOTT, the Country Manager and CEO
of Shanghai Construction Group, Cabinet Ministers and
Permanent Secretaries, the Chief Justice, the Speaker and
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, as well
as other Senior Government officials, dignitaries, and
members of the general public.
In his opening remarks, the Honourable Patrick Manning
referred to the Academy as a ‗masterpiece‘. He continued
by stating that, step by step, the transformation
anticipated by Vision 2020 is falling into place. Within
the scope of physical transformation, he indicated that a
nationwide highway programme is scheduled for
September 2010. He identified water as the second
priority, followed by electricity and then Information and
Communication Technology.
Above: Mrs. Hazel Manning, Prime Minister Patrick
Manning, First Lady Dr. Jean Ramjohn Richards and His
Excellency President George Maxwell Richards with
guests at the hand-over .
The premier event hosted by the Ministry of Community
Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, was held in
the NAPA Auditorium on Saturday November 14th,
2009. The performance by the National Theatre Arts
Company of Trinidad and Tobago entitled ―Dance Me,
Lover‖ followed the Gala Reception.
The Academy will be managed by the University of
Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), and will subsequently open
its doors to students in January 2010.

8 LONDON MISSION
NEWS
ttconnect
t
tconnect is one of Government‘s umbrella
initiatives for facilitating citizen access to public
services in a way that is significantly more convenient than
what has traditionally obtained. With the motto
―Government at your service‖,ttconnect is a statement of
intent by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to put
the citizen first! Through ttconnect, a citizen can choose
from any five ways of interfacing with Government:
Using the Internet:
ttconnect Online is a one-stop, 24/7 shop for access to
― a l l o f G o v e r n m e n t ‖ u s i n g t h e
Internet. ttconnect Online provides a new way to
interact and transact Government business.
Visiting a ‘common counter’
Through partnerships with Ministries and
Agencies, ttconnect Service Centres conveniently
provide over-the-counter information and selected
services to the public by using information and forms
available online through ttconnect Online.
Using a self-serve automated kiosk
ttconnect Self Serve Kiosks are a non-intrusive, userfriendly
automated service option to access Government
services at convenient locations during the normal day‘s
activities. Four kiosks are being piloted throughout
Trinidad and Tobago, at Piarco International Airport,
Point Fortin Borough Corporation, Point Fortin, Gulf City
Mall, La Romain, and most recently at Gulf City Mall,
Tobago.
Using a mobile phone
ttconnect Mobile proposes to allow users access to
Government services and information through the use of
their mobile telephones and other mobile devices. At
present, the service is in the development stage; but has
been successfully tested during the 5th Summit of the
Americas.
Contacting the Government hotline
ttconnect Hotline is also in the developmental stage. It
is intended to support calls from citizens requiring
information on government services, and placing queries
on the status of an application submitted
via ttconnect Online, Service Centres, or Self-Serve.
Syrian, Lebanese communities celebrate 100 years in T&T
T
he presence of Syrian and Lebanese people in
Trinidad and Tobago was celebrated recently at
the Nalis Library, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
Among the specially invited guests were Chairman
Emeritus of ANSA McAL, Dr Anthony N Sabga, and
former First Lady Zalayhar Hassanali. Coordinator of the
exhibition, Historian Louis Homer, guided the patrons
through the respective displays, the themes of which
included: Arrival; Bagmen; Worship; Khalil Gibran;
Music; Art; and Culture. There were also presentations
based on pioneering companies, politics, business, national
recognition and artefacts.
A pamphlet was issued which featured photographs of
Abddou Sabga, the man considered to be the father of the
Syrian and Lebanese communities in Trinidad and Tobago,
who arrived in the country in 1909 and wasted little time
before putting his entrepreneurship skills to good use
whilst establishing his own business. Feature speaker,
Mayor Murchison Brown, stated that they had done
remarkably well in all fields. ―Syrian/Lebanese families
came to our shores and found a home right here in Port-of
-Spain— more precisely, Marine Square, as it was then
called,‖ said the mayor. He continued: ―In the years that
followed after 1909, the Syrian and Lebanese communities
provided its customers, not only with goods at a
reasonable price, but the type of service that encouraged
customers to patronise.‖
In highlighting what he believed was a key element to their
success to date, the Mayor quoted Talmoon Stewart in
stating that, ―among the Syrian and Lebanese
communities, the attitude prevailed that the performance
and social-economic circumstances of any member of the
group reflected on the group as a whole. Helping
newcomers was a strategy in community survival and
group mobility.‖

NEWS
LONDON MISSION 9
Norway’s Ambassador visits Ministry of Foreign Affairs
in Trinidad and Tobago
S
enator the Honourable Hazel Manning,
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs welcomed
His Excellency Torbjorn Holthe, Ambassador of
Norway at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 6th
November, 2009, after the Ambassador presented
his Credentials to His Excellency Professor George
Maxwell Richards, President of the Republic of
Trinidad and Tobago.
During the courtesy call, Minister Manning and the
Ambassador discussed bilateral relations between
the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Norway.
Discussions were extremely cordial and included
among other topics, the energy sector, education,
tourism, cultural exchanges and climate change.
The Honourable Minister and Ambassador Holthe
also discussed the issue of the international impact of
climate change and the upcoming United Nations
Conference on Climate Change to be held in
Copenhagen, Denmark during the period 7th to
18th December, 2009. Minister Manning
underscored the grave impact that climate change
had on small island developing states like Trinidad
and Tobago, and indicated that the Government of
Trinidad and Tobago remained hopeful that positive
outcomes would emerge from this international
meeting.
On the subject of tourism, His Excellency indicated
to Minister Manning that while he was of the
impression that not many nationals of Trinidad and
Tobago travelled to Norway, which is a member of
the Schengen Zone of the European Union, he noted
that many Schengen Visas were issued in the past
year to nationals of Trinidad and Tobago travelling
to Norway on business.
In focusing on cultural matters, Ambassador Holthe
informed the Honourable Minister of the visit of SF
Norge, a Norwegian Film Company, to Trinidad
and Tobago to shoot a film on the life and period of
adjustment of a Norwegian expatriate family who
moved to Trinidad and Tobago during the 1970s.
The film is being shot during the period 9th October
Above: Senator the Hon. Hazel Manning, while serving
as Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, meets with His
Excellency Torbjorn Holthe, Ambassador of Norway, at
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
to 9th December, 2009. Minister Manning indicated
to His Excellency that the Trinidad and Tobago Film
Company has been actively engaging international
film companies in doing work in Trinidad and
Tobago. Discussions for filming on location in
Trinidad and Tobago were initiated during the visit
to Norway by H.E. Glenda Morean Phillip, then
High Commissioner, and Commercial Attaché
Dionne Ligoure.
Ambassador Torbjorn Holthe has had a longstanding
diplomatic career in the Foreign Service.
Prior to his appointment as Norway‘s new
Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, His Excellency
held the position of Senior Advisor in the
Department for Culture, Public Diplomacy and
Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
Norway.
The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the
Kingdom of Norway established diplomatic
relations in September 1979. In Europe, Norway
comes under the accreditation of the Trinidad and
Tobago High Commission in London, United
Kingdom.

10 LONDON MISSION
NEWS
British Foundation for the
University of the West Indies
launched in London
Left: University of the West Indies (UWI) Chancellor, Sir George Alleyne
T
he British Foundation for the University of the West
Indies (BFUWI) was launched Friday 25 th September,
2009, at the Commonwealth Club, London, England, by
the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the
University of the West Indies United Kingdom Alumni
Association (UWIUKAA).
Hon. David Thompson, Prime Minister of Barbados; UWI
Chancellor Sir George Alleyne; Vice Chancellor & BFUWI
Trustee, Prof. E. Nigel Harris along with H.E. Laleshwar
Singh, Guyana‘s High Commissioner to London & Dean of
the Caribbean High Commissioners in the UK, and
BFUWI Trustee & President of the UWIUKAA, addressed
the launch event.
Mr. Winston Bayley, BFUWI Trustee; former UWI
Chancellor, Sir Shridath Ramphal and Sir Ronald Sanders,
Diplomat & Financial Media Advisor, witnessed the launch
attended by BFUWI patrons, Commonwealth and
Caribbean professionals and Diaspora leaders, members of
parliament and British and Caribbean media.
The BFUWI will operate as a professional UK Charity in
compliance with the rules and regulations of the governing
UK Charities Commission, to raise funds and garner
support for the UWI through promotional and relationship
building activities principally in the UK. The BFUWI is
eligible under UK taxation law for the financial credits
arising from Gift Aid Payments.
It is expected, the VC said, that funds raised by the
BFUWI will help to:
Promote and finance undergraduate and post
graduate students based on merit and need;
Promote and help finance academic exchanges
between the UK and the Caribbean to enhance
knowledge development;
Fund chairs at the UWI in specific areas of
endeavour;
Help fund facilities to promote human resource and
knowledge development; and
Finance internships for UK students to study in the
Caribbean.
The BFUWI is the second overseas Foundation to be
established by the UWI in association with one of its
alumni groups. The American Foundation for the
University of the West Indies was established in 1956 as a
non-profit organization to develop an Endowment Fund in
the U.S.A., for the UWI.
UWI Vice Chancellor, Prof. E. Nigel Harris, hailed the
launch of the BFUWI as ―the cementing of a long standing
partnership between our university and Caribbean and
British nationals to sustain and develop the UWI.‖ Noting
that the UWI, which celebrated its 60 th anniversary last
year, was founded in 1948 as the University College of the
West Indies by the University of London with Princess
Alice as its patron, Prof. Harris said that in
commemorating this anniversary, the UWI and
UWIUKAA collaborated to establish the BFUWI which
was officially registered with the UK Charity Commission
on January 7, 2009.
Prof. Harris noted that ―the UWI was the only pan-
Caribbean tertiary institution offering many diverse,
accredited programmes across its Caribbean countries to
almost 40,000 regional and overseas students, preparing
them for future careers in the Caribbean region and
beyond but cannot realize its full potential because of
scarce funds to support students without means as well as
to promote the sort of enquiry that post graduate students
can contribute to areas of new knowledge that can drive
regional development.‖
For more than 50 years, AFUWI has provided scholarships
and grants and funded special projects to foster the
development of the University.
Original patrons of the AFUWI were former US First Lady
Eleanor Roosevelt and Her Royal Highness Princess
Alice. Current patrons are: Actor/Songwriter, Harry
Belafonte, Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott and former US
Secretary of State, Colin Powell.
The UWI Regional Endowment Fund launched in 2008 has
raised over J$5 million to date and this year disbursed its
first set of scholarships and grants to 19 students attending
UWI, Mona, Jamaica; Cave Hill, Barbados and St.
Augustine, Trinidad.

TOURISM
LONDON MISSION 11
Right: Mrs. Radhica Saith, wife of Dr. Lenny Saith, proudly
displays Trinidad and Tobago's ‘Island of the Year’ award
with Ag. High Commissioner Ms. Gail Guy.
T
rinidad and Tobago was declared "Island of the
Year" 2009 by the Caribbean World magazine.
The oil and energy twin island republic of the Caribbean
won the prestigious award after being afforded the opportunity
to host two major international conferences this
year.
In April, Trinidad and Tobago was one of the few countries
in the world to host newly elected
President of the United States of America, Barack Obama,
and other Heads of State who attended the Fifth Summit
of the Americas, which took place in the city of Port of
Spain.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II led the 52 leaders of the
Commonwealth at the bi annual Commonwealth Heads of
Government Meeting (CHOGM) which was officially
launched at the newly constructed National Academy for
Performing Arts in Port of Spain, on November 26,
2009 .
World Travel Market Reception held at TTHC
Left: TDC President Ernest Littles. Above: Invitees at the reception.
Right: Duane Dove, CEO Tobaog Coco Estates, treated guests to a
taste of his chocolates and Angostura Rum. sommelier
T
he Tourism Development Company (TDC) of
Trinidad and Tobago, in conjunction with the
Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, hosted
participants from the 2009 World Travel Market (WTM),
at a gala reception at the High Commission on November
9, 2009.
Guests included retired West Indies Captain and world
record holder, Brian Lara, and football stars Dwight
Yorke and Dennis Lawrence, prominent members of the
Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora and British nationals with
interests in T&T. The event, which was organised by T&T
owned Poison UK Events Management Co., showcased
some of the world class products and services that
Trinidad and Tobago has to offer: chocolate, provided by
sommelier Duane Dove; Angostura Rum, tasty ‘Trini‘
food provided by famous chef Hasan Defour; and steelpan
music provided by Sterling Betancourt and the Pan
Pioneers.
For more pictures from the event, please see pages 20 and 21.

12 LONDON MISSION
FEATURE
Above: Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Ozair Hasnain, addresses a full and captive audience at the High Commission.
O
n Saturday 26 th September,
2009, Nationals of Trinidad
and Tobago gathered at the High
Commission to celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr. The
following is the feature address delivered on
the day by Mrs. Asela Ibrahim-ElMorsy JP
LLB(Hons)
We are gathered to celebrate Eid-ul-
Fitr, the end of Ramadan, a month of
spirituality and reflection for all
Muslims. This reflection could easily
lead us to feel that the person who
invented sliced bread has a great deal
to answer for. From the moment
society had ease, convenience and
effort was minimized, we seemed to
have lost the will to strive. We used
to work at everything and be grateful
for whatever we earned because we
had an appreciation.
However, there is little use in talking
of the problems of morality in this day
and age when the problem is more
deep-rooted and the solutions a
matter of personal responsibility. All
religions are a way of life, a means of
communication with fellow human
beings. When Muslims open each
prayer with ―Alhamdulillahi Rabil
Aalameen‖ we are acknowledging that
―All praise is due to God, Lord of all
the world” – not just Muslims. Religion
provides a basis for human interaction
and also a remedy. There is a simple
recipe for success, religion is merely
the method and the vital ingredient is
faith.
Enhancing the individual is simple and
the first step is to listen. Today in our
mixed communities listening is even
more important; it is essential to make
friends with our neighbours of a
different culture and generation. The
importance of silence to the spirit of
man is widely recognized. St John said
we cannot expect to love God whom
we do see, if we do not love our
brother whom we do see (1 John
4:20). In the same way the person
who is too self-absorbed and
inattentive to listen to his neighbour is
no more likely to pay attention to the
inner voice of his heart.
In his book ‗The Devils of Loudon‘,
Aldous Huxley wrote; ―those who
crusade not for God in themselves but
against the devil in others, never
succeed in making the world better‖.
For a full and healthy life man must
have some standards that he respects,
and, for his own self-respect, adheres
to. There are just 4 standards of
conduct which represent universal
moral values held in common by all
the faiths: absolute honesty, purity,
unselfishness and love. When a
conscience is uneasy we have only to
refer back to them to determine what
has gone wrong.
When men change, societies change
and so nations change. Dr Frank
Buchman, initiator of Moral Re-
Armament said ―If you want the world
different, the best place to start is with
yourself‖. The world must be
governed by men who are themselves
governed by faith. This means the
whole machinery of government. Such
a rise in the quality of life might help
to achieve some of the miracles so
urgently needed in raising the standard
of living among the poor of the earth.
At this years celebrations: Welcome remarks
and message from the Honourable Prime
Minister - Ag. High Commissioner. Ms.
Gail Guy; Master of Ceremonies - Dr.
Ozair Hasnain; opening prayer - Mr.
Azzam Mohammed; Quranic recitation -
Adam Zein Ghany and Khalil Mohammed;
and vote of thanks - Ms. Naaila
Mohammed.

FEATURE
LONDON MISSION 13
T
he Trinidad and Tobago High
Commission in London, hosted its 5th
Annual Divali Function on October 24, 2009.
Over one hundred nationals residing in London
and surrounding areas, turned out to participate
in the event.
The programme included bhajans rendered by
various singers from Trinidad and Tobago,
prayers to Mother Lakshmi, led by Punditi Arsha
Gosine Ghosh MBE, and discourse from the
Tulsidass Ramayan by Shri Krishna Ragbir of the
Trinidad and Tobago High Commission. The
Prime Minister‘s message was read by
Commercial Attaché, Dionne Ligoure of the
Trinidad and Tobago High Commission.
The feature address was delivered by guest
speaker Shri Mahesh Sharma, Press and
Information Attaché from the High Commission
for the Republic of India. Shri Sharma took the
opportunity to chant verses from the Srimad
Bhagwat Gita, which explains the significance of
light and the removal of darkness from our lives.
He commented on the strong ties between India
and Trinidad and Tobago and noted that he was
honoured to celebrate the occasion with
nationals from the twin island republic.
1
2
3
(1) Deyas are lit to start the celebrations at the
Mission. (2) Punditi Arsha Gosine Ghosh MBE,
Shri Krishna Ragbir and Pundit Bhish Patel, all
played key roles in the formal segment of
proceedings. (3) Sri Mahesh Sharma, Press and
Information Attaché at the India High
Commission, during his contribution to the
function. (4) A portion of the sizeable crowd at
the function. Photos by Donald Chambers. 4

14 LONDON MISSION
BUSINESS
Caribbean4life -
Birmingham Trade Conference
November 02, 2009
by Commercial Attaché
T
he High Commission through the Commercial
Attaché, Dionne Ligoure was invited to
participate in the Caribbean4life Trade Conference in
Birmingham on November 02, 2009. This event was the
follow up to the inaugural Trade Conference which took
place on November 10, 2008. Trinidad and Tobago and
the United Kingdom (UK) have long enjoyed strong
bilateral relations and this conference provided Trinidad
and Tobago with a forum to share information to key
stakeholders in Birmingham and the Midlands on
investment opportunities in the twin island republic.
What is Caribbean4life?
Caribbean 4 Life is a company established for the purpose
of connecting all things Caribbean and doing business at all
levels. Their main aim is to raise the profile of the
Caribbean as a place to invest in and do business,
highlighting the opportunities available to UK companies
to develop strategic working partnerships with business
and organisations in the region.
The long-term objective of the project is to increase the
volume and value of trade through the creation of business
opportunities and interfacing between UK and Caribbean
Government and trade organizations.
Caribbean4life is based in Birmingham and have the
support of: Business Link, UK Trade and Invest (UKTI),
the Birmingham City Council, the Birmingham Chamber
of Commerce and Business Insight.
The Trade Conference, Birmingham, November
02, 2009
The 2009 Caribbean Trade Conference and Expo was
held at the International Convention Centre (ICC),
Birmingham on Monday, 2nd November, 2009. The
event helped to facilitate direct commercial links between
Caribbean and UK trade organisations, SMEs, investors,
suppliers and procurement specialists from a wide and
diverse range of industry sectors including manufacturing,
construction, tourism, finance and education. These
linkages will aid the process of promoting growth in bilateral
trade from commercial contracts, joint ventures and
other strategic working partnerships.
by Dionne Ligoure
The attendees, who included a party of twenty Barbados
based businesses on a trade mission, were treated to a
wealth of information and advice, including:
Details of how to apply for millions of pounds worth
of aid-funded contracts
Tips and advice on the legal issues involved with
doing business in Caribbean countries and
organisations
Information on the business support available to
businesses engaging in International trade.
The distinguished list of speakers/contributors included:
Laurence Jones , European Regional
Manager, Jamaica Trade and Invest
Chris Clifford, Regional Director,
Confederation of British Industry
Tony Lucas, Client Services Director,
Business Link West Midlands
Doug Mahoney, West Midlands Directors,
United Kingdom Trade and Investment
(UKTI)
Dionne Ligoure, Commercial Attaché,
High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad
and Tobago and many more.
The Commercial Attaché‘s presentation focussed on the
development of the non-energy sectors in Trinidad and
Tobago and the consequent investment opportunities.
Networking, a key factor for successful business:
In the world of commerce, networks and partnerships are
regarded as key to business success.
Based on the interest shown in the Caribbean in general
and Trinidad and Tobago in particular, it is evident that
participation in fora of this type is important to generate
and increase awareness of opportunities for investment in
Trinidad and Tobago and to reach niche markets, in the
Diaspora and wider regions in the UK.
The Commercial Attaché endorses this approach to trade
promotion, where a proactive strategy is pursued to
ensure that the markets to which the High Commission is
accredited are sensitized about investment opportunities in
Trinidad and Tobago.

BUSINESS
LONDON MISSION 15
T
rinidadtunes.com is the first legal
digital platform in the Caribbean
offering downloads of Trinidad and
Tobago music and stories over the
internet. Trinidadtunes.com archives,
promotes and allows users to listen to
free samples of all the tracks. All
tracks are encoded in the mp3 format
with the album artwork attached. The
users have the facility to download on
their computers and mobile phones,
using either Caribbean or international
credit cards.
Trinidadtunes.com was set up as a
joint venture between Riddums
Productions (Lorraine O‘Connor and
Rosemary Hezekiah) and Caribbean
Music Group (Jean Michel Gibert).
Strong on 15 years experience of
working in the local and international
music industry, founding a record
label, a publishing company and a
recording studio, showcasing and
touring artists throughout Europe,
USA and the Caribbean, the directors
saw the opportunity to put Trinidad
and Tobago music on a platform
accessible to the world. One year of
extensive research went into the
setting up of the site as the company
tried to model itself on the
immensely popular www.itunes.com.
Itunes.com has now sold over 5 billion
songs.
With strong support from top local
artistes and producers such as David
Rudder, Machel Montano, the Mighty
Sparrow, Rikki Jai, Mastamind
Productions, Paul Keens Douglas,
3Canal, and Sanch Electronix, to
name a few, trinidadtunes.com
negotiated with the owners of the
music for their master rights, which
gives Trinidadtunes.com the legal
authorization to offer digital
downloads of the most popular music
of Trinidad and Tobago and the
Caribbean. The artists receive 60% of
the sales revenue with open book
accounting as each artiste has his/her
own account. This has opened a whole
new market to the more popular
artistes as well as to the newcomers in
the music business.
Today the site boasts over 9,000 songs
and some 900 artistes covering all the
genres from Trinidad and Tobago.
Due to the directors‘ unique position
as owners of ‗De Music Store‘ in
Piarco international Airport, Trinidad,
trinidadtunes.com is first in line to
receive and distribute all the newly
released music allowing it to be
consistently updated with the latest
hits.
The ultimate goal of the company is to
position the music of Trinidad and
Tobago and the wider Caribbean in a
target market estimated at 300 million
people (100 million Caribbean, 100
million Diaspora and 100 million
Caribbean music lovers), thereby
generating economic benefits both for
the artistes and for the region. Thus
making www.trinidadtunes.com into
the premiere ‗point of reference‘ for
Trinidad and Tobago and Caribbean
music on the international stage.
Birmingham Trade Conference (continued from previous page)
C
reating awareness is the first step to any successful
promotion or marketing effort. It is most
effective as part of what should be a consistent and multiprong
approach to a presence in the respective markets.
Trinidad and Tobago is competing in a global environment
where focus is increasingly being placed on the larger
emerging economies (Poland, Vietnam) and the BRIC
(Brazil, Russia, India and China) countries.
With these formidable competing markets and UKTI‘s
increased focus on and allocation of resources to these
markets and away from the Caribbean, Trinidad and
Tobago must chart its course and continue to vigorously
pursue networking opportunities in the broader United
Kingdom and accredited countries. The importance of
networking and utilizing relevant opportunities to expose
Trinidad and Tobago cannot be emphasized enough.
Effective development is never a simple matter. It is only
when potential investors are made aware of the existence
and profile of Trinidad and Tobago that the merits of doing
business in TT will be appreciated.

16
LONDON MISSION
CULTURE
Above: Carnival Village CEO, Mr. Shanaka Thompson, addresses the audience at the National
Discourse on Carnival.
T
he Carnival Village, The ELIMU Paddington
Arts Carnival Band, the Victoria and Albert
Museum and HISTORYtalk hosted the National
Discourse on Carnival in October 2009 in London.
The feature of this event was the inaugural Claudia Jones
Carnival Memorial Lecture delivered by Dr Pat Bishop
who opened her lecture - The Globalisation of Carnival
Culture and its Impact on the Carnival Diasporic People Today -
by addressing the complexity of the topic.
In an illuminating and entertaining presentation, Dr
Bishop challenged her listeners to see Carnival Arts as
existing in the glorious light of innovation and creativity.
She said, ―This art should be retrieved, re-appropriated
and returned to its community – a better, freer place
where all the bread isn‘t ready-sliced and all the
information isn‘t transmitted by Power Point!; where a
mas is not a computer generated graphic and where a mas
camp with its food, its music, its sharing, its skill
development and the verbally expressed life of the mind
could, in some way return to the people.‖
Dr Bishop concluded that we (in Britain) should ensure
that Carnival is accredited among the ‗high arts‘. ―We
should challenge recognised arts practitioners to give it
due esteem and recognition. We should affirm and ensure
its continuity.‖
Several recurrent themes emerged during the rest of the
event: the triumph over adversity; continuity and growth
through heroic struggle, individual sacrifices and personal
contributions; growth and evolution impacting on
millions of participants for over half a century; a
uniqueness of form, fashion and artistic excellence and a
vision for the future that is promising and exciting. These
were the positives.
The systemic failings of Carnival‘s management and
governance, inequitable financial returns and noninvolvement
of youths were some of the perceived failings
to date.
These themes have been formulated into
recommendations. The challenge thrown out to
participants was to reshape the current vision and
organisational strategy for Carnival and to draft an Action
Plan to reflect these recommendations and increase the
momentum of change for the immediate future.
A full report of the National Discourse will be available
from the Carnival Village, 0207 221 9700, from
December 2009.

CULTURE LONDON MISSION 17
From left: Dominique Le Gendre, Vahni Capildeo,
Satya Crystal and Karen Martinez , take centre
stage at the launch.
A
characteristically Trinidadian mix of energies was flowing in
the lead up to the launch on October 1 at the London Mission
of Vahni Capildeo‘s second full poetry collection, Undraining
Sea (Norwich: Egg Box, 2009).
A box of ginger lilies and heliconia had changed hands on a street in
Bayswater. A call had gone out for a Midnight Robber. Dominique
LeGendre was tuning her cuatro for a tay lay lay that evening in Belgrave
Square. In a small room, Katrina Marshall of BBC Caribbean Magazine
was winding up her interview with the poet.
By six p.m., guests and passersby in Belgrave Square were greeted by
the beckoning, beribonned Pierrot Grenade on the Mission stairs, and
by the stunning Wang Yue, of Beijing, via Hans Place, Knightsbridge. A
quick change artiste, Debora De Gazon creativelearningcircuit.com)
transformed from Pierrot into Midnight Robber, summoning folk to the
soirée and unleashing a spate of ole time Robber Talk to gear them up
for the speakers.
Below: Poet and author, Vahni
Capildeo recites from her new
publication - Undraining Sea.
Undraining Sea has already received acclaim: a poem from this book
was Highly Commended in the Forward Poetry Prize, 2009.
Egg Box www.eggboxpublishing.com, an independent, Norwichbased
poetry publisher, is run by the young poet Nathan Hamilton,
nephew of the late Scottish poet Ian Hamilton. It is rapidly establishing a
reputation for a fresh, edgy approach and backing talented newcomers.
Capildeo‘s second collection, Dark & Unaccustomed Words, is also due
from Egg Box (2010).
The Acting High Commissioner, Ms Gail Guy, was kind enough to open
the occasion. Sir Vidia and Lady Naipaul sent their compliments. Dr
Heather O‘Donoghue, Reader in Old Norse at the University of
Oxford, introduced the poet, whom she had known since her very early
student days.
Continues on next page.

18
LONDON MISSION
FEATURE
(continued from pg. 17)
Above: . Above (right): British Olympian Diane Modahl speaks to a member of the press at the launch. Photos by
Kevin@responsephotographic.com
Vahni Capildeo, who studied English and Old Norse at
Oxford and held a Rhodes Scholarship during her graduate
years, enjoys a long involvement with the Caribbean Review
of Books and has lately been appointed to the International
Advisory Board of the University of Warwick‘s Journal of
Indo-Caribbean Studies. Daughter of Leila and Devendranath
Capildeo and a first cousin once removed of V. S. Naipaul,
from childhood Capildeo has been aware of the
international literary potential of Trinidadians, and the
pleasures and perils of the writer‘s craft. Her books include
No Traveller Returns (Salt, 2003), Person Animal Figure
(Landfill, 2005), and, not least, a short story in the
anthology Trinidad Noir (Akashic, 2008), edited by Lisa
Allen-Agostini and Jeanne Mason, which was the subject of
another literary launch at the London Mission in April
2009.
Publisher Nathan Hamilton spoke a few words of thanks to
Ms Guy, all involved with the launch, and especially Satya
Jeremie Crystal, who (too modest to appear in the
character of presiding spirit) worked tirelessly so every
detail meshed seamlessly into a night of colour, words,
music, and celebration. Satya thanked Vahni for being born
brilliant, and Nathan for trusting her with turning the event
from a launch into a salon of Trinidadian culture. The
celebrated Miss Dominique Le Gendre, Trinidadian
composer and the first woman to write Opera for the Royal
Opera House, Bird of Night (also Tales of the Islands and
Burial at Thebes) brought the formal part of the evening to a
spirited yet mellow close with her rendition of the famous
‗Tay Lay Lay‘ calypso, accompanying herself on the cuatro.
It was then time for sampling the delicious canapés
prepared by celebrity chef Hasan de Four and for guests to
imbibe several ‗Sea Sliders‘, a cocktail blended for the
evening by Piero of Freud‘s in Covent Garden, aided and
abetted by Satya and Domo Baal, London gallerist
(www.domobaal.com).
It was truly unusual and moving to see people from so
many different spheres: Diane Modahl, former Olympian,
Kimya Kamshad, secretary of the Iran Heritage Fund,
Martina Laird and Ben Crystal, producers and actors and
David Crystal, noted linguist, discovering, and making,
happy connections. But maybe not so unusual: more than a
book launch, this was a real sample of Trinidad culture.
Food and drink sponsors for the evening were the National
Lotteries Control Board, SKNL UK and Advoco
Investment Services Limited. Flowers were provided by
Michael Anatol.
The event would not have worked so well without the
indefatigable contribution of Donald Chambers and Donna
Forde from the High Commission and on the evening, the
hard work of James Emohare, Diana Wang (Yue), Sophie
and Jeremie Crystal and Georgie Bretherton and the
tireless unstinting support of Jonathan Crystal.
The event also showed off the stirrings of a revolution in
the arts, MIXIT, of which more to follow…

FEATURE LONDON MISSION 19
I
n October, Black history Month in the United
Kingdom, the Black Film Maker (BFM) media group,
in partnership with the Trinidad and Tobago High
Commission in London, hosted a networking event for
stakeholders in the film industry, at the High Commission.
The event served to acquaint members of the film
industry with their counterparts from all over the world,
most of whom were in London for the upcoming BFM
International Film Festival in November 2009. Ms. Gail
Guy, Acting High Commissioner for the Republic of
Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the participants from
Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean, the United
Kingdom, the United States of America and various
African states.
The feature address of the evening was made by
accomplished American actor , director and co-founder of
New Millennium Studios, Tim Reid (pictured above, far
left). Reid is best known for his television role as Ray
Campbell in the popular 1990s sitcom, ‗Sister Sister.‘
Among the speakers were Ms. Nadia Denton, Festival
Director, BFM International Film Festival, and Ms.
Dionne Ligoure, Commercial Attaché at the Trinidad and
Tobago High Commission (above right) and Mrs Marina
Salandy-Browne, co-founder of the Trinidad and Tobago
Film Festival (above centre), both of whom informed on
the rapid development of the film industry in T&T and its
attractions to foreign investors and filmmakers.
30% Cash Back offered in Trinidad and Tobago
Ms. Ligoure made special mention of the competitive
rebate program recently introduced by the Trinidad and
Tobago Film Company - the Production Expenditure
Rebate Program. To the delight of the audience, Ms.
Ligoure disclosed that under this incentive, film producers
would be provided cash rebates of up to 30% for
expenditures incurred whilst filming in Trinidad and
Tobago.
For more information on filming in Trinidad and Tobago, please
visit www.trinidadandtobagofilm.com.
About the BFM
BFM International Film Festival (IFF) is an annual event which
was established over 10 years ago. The Festival is in partnership
with the British Film Institute (BFI) Southbank, the British
Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) and the Institute of
Contemporary Arts (ICA); and sponsored by the UK Film Council,
Film London, the Mayor of London and the BBC. BFM IFF is the
leading and longest running platform for Black World Cinema in
the UK that caters to an African and Caribbean audience as well
as those interested in Black arts. This year, Danny Glover is
headlining the 11 th BFM IFF which will be taking place from 6 th
– 10 th November 2009. For more information on the Festival
please visit www.bfmmedia.com.
Above: Nadia Denton - International Film Festival Director
BFM. Above (right) - Meeting of worlds: An important
function of the event was the opportunity to network. Here
actress J. Elias-Rilwan of Nigeria and British filmmaker, J.
Thorbuburn, interact over glasses of Trinidad and Tobago
Rum Punch.

20
LONDON MISSION
FEATURE
1 2
3
(1) Cricket legend Brian Lara. (2) Football stars Dwight Yorke and Dennis Lawrence. (3) Guests were served tropical cocktails by
the costumed girls of Poison UK, pictured here with Acting High Commissioner Gail Guy and former Ms. Trinidad and Tobago
UK, Dr. Natalie Johnson.
4 5
6
7
(4) Calypsonian Lord Relator entertained with
a performance of his much loved classic
‘Gavaskar.’ (5) And he also sang happy
birthday to an obviously surprised Andrew
Ramroop. The Saville Row tailor celebrated his
birthday the following day. (6) Former Miss
Trinidad and Tobago, Beverly Toney, in
conversation with a guest at the reception.
(7) After formal remarks by representatives
from the TDC and the High Commission, the
lovely steelpan music of Pan Pioneers filled
the room. (8) And inspired guest to take to the
floor.
8

FEATURE LONDON MISSION 21
9
10
(9) Deputy Chairman of the TDC Mrs. Radhica
Saith (centre) with a costumed Poison UK girl
11
and guests at the WTM reception, held at the
TTHC. (10) Poison UK girls flank Mr. Brian
Awang, Chairman, Board of Directors at the
TDC, Mr. Wendel Clement, Director, Poison
UK Events Management Co. (11) World
famous Trinidad and Tobago Chef, Hasan
Defour with football star Dwight Yorke. (12)
TTHC’s Public Affairs Attaché, Ashton Ford,
has the full attention of TDC’s Brian Awang
and lord Relator. (13) Lord Relator
autograph’s a CD for the TTHC’s Mr. Audie
12 Quong-Sing. Photos by Donald Chambers.
13
VACANCY AT HIGH COMMISSION
Messenger/Driver
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission as a Messenger/Driver. The
post involves working closely with the High Commissioner, Diplomats, Government Ministers and other high
profile clients.
Candidates must be over 21 years of age and have:
A clean UK driving licence valid for over 2 years
Excellent communication skills
Good personal presentation
2 years excellent references
Previous driving experience essential
Must not have a criminal record
Applications by post:
Attention Mr. Geoff Lowe
Trinidad and Tobago High Commission
42 Belgrave Square
London
SW1X 8NT
We are only able to process applications which meet these essential criteria. If you are interested kindly submit a
copy of your CV and a covering letter in the first instance via e-mail to glowe@tthclondon.org. Alternatively,
address your letter to (see mailing details above).

22
LONDON MISSION
FEATURE
Focus on the Mission
The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission welcomes its new Defence Attaché, Captain
(N) Jeewah Ramoutar. Captain(N) Ramoutar joined the staff of the High Commission in
August, 2009.
Captain Jeewah Ramoutar
Defence Attaché
Background: A career Defence Force Officer (Coast Guard) for the past thirty one(31)
years. Captain Ramoutar studied at various Military Institutions in the United Kingdom
and the United States of America. He has held many Senior portfolios in the Defence
Force including Aide de Camp to His Excellency , President Noor M. Hassanali. He was
appointed as the Commanding Officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard in 2005
and served there until he was assigned to this High Commission. Captain Ramoutar is
also the holder of a Masters of Business Administration for Executives (EMBA) degree,
from UWI St. Augustine.
Ms. Nickesha Smith
Second Secretary
Nickesha Smith is the Second Secretary at the High Commission. Ms. Smith joined the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in October 2007. Ms. Smith served as an Officer in the
European Affairs Unit of the Bilateral Relations Division, and later in the Protocol and
Consular Affairs Division. Ms. Smith completed undergraduate and post-graduate
degrees in Spanish, French, Communication Studies and International Relations at the
University of the West Indies. Her interests, apart from International Relations, include
poetry, modern and contemporary dance, photography and film production.
Narinesingh Lal joined the High Commission staff on September 2, 2009 as the
Immigration Attaché. Mr. Lal has been a member of the public service since 1971. He
was first employed in the Registrar General’s Department and then moved to the State
Solicitor’s Department, Ministry of Legal Affairs. Thereafter, he joined the Immigration
Department, Ministry of National Security in 1975. Before his posting to the High
Commission, London, he worked as the Acting Assistant Immigration Officer in Port of
Spain. Mr. Lal holds an associate degree in Management Studies from COSTATT and is a
first year law student with the University of London’s external programme.
Mr. Narinesingh Lal
Immigration Attaché
Focus on the Mission
Dr
.
Oz
air
Ha
sn
ai
n;
op
eni
1 2
(1) Young Adam Ghany and Adam Mohammed recite from the Quran at this year’s Eid celebrations. (2) Dr. Ozair Hasnain,
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Azzam Mohammed who ng said the opening prayer, and Mrs. Asela Ibrahim-ElMorsy, feature speaker
at the Eid Celebrations. (3) Sri Mahesh Sharma, Press and Information Attaché from the High Commission for the Republic of
India makes a presentation of Indian books to Acting Commissioner Guy, on behalf of the India High Commission.
3

FEATURE LONDON MISSION 23
Attention Nationals
The High Commission is delighted to issue the new Trinidad and Tobago
machine readable passports. In order to facilitate a seamless process, all
applicants are kindly reminded to ensure that all necessary documents are
produced on making the application at the Mission.
Please read carefully the guidelines below which are binding. Applicants who
do not to adhere to the listed criteria will require another appointment.
Original documentary evidence of your
Trinidad and Tobago Citizenship must be
submitted and will be returned to you upon
delivery of the passport.
Naturalisation - Certificate
of Naturalisation, Birth Certificate.
Adoption - Certificate of Adoption,
Birth Certificate where possible.
If you were born in Trinidad and Tobago, you
must provide the following documents:
Birth Certificate
Affidavit(s) or deed poll(s) (where
applicable)
If you acquired citizenship of another
country, you must produce the
citizenship certificate of that country.
The date of your acquisision must be
stated.
Female applicants who are married
must submit their marriage certificate
(s). If married more than once, all
original certificates including decree
absolutes must be produced.
If you were born outside of Trinidad and
Tobago and are a citizen by any of the
following, you must submit:
Descent - Birth Certificate; proof of
parents‘ Trinidad and Tobago
citizenship; their birth certificates,
marriage certificates, and passports,
Trinidad and Tobago citizenship
certificates.
Registration - Certificate of
Registration, Birth Certificate.
Please note photocopies of all
documents must accompany originals.
The applicant must :
complete and sign the application
form.
Have the application form signed by an
eligible recommender.
Submit the most recently issued
passport in which your name appears.
Ensure that the name entered on the
application is the name the applicant
wishes to appear in the passport.
Provide evidence of any change of
name by submitting a Deed Poll.
Please note that if the information on
the application form differs from the
information on the documentary
evidence produced, you may be
required to submit a Sworn
Declaration to clarify any differences.
The written authority of a parent /
legal guardian is required for all
applicants under the age of 18 years.

High Commission for the Republic of
Trinidad and Tobago
42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT
Tel: 020 7245 9351 Fax: 020 7823 1065
E-mail: tthc@btconnect.com
Product of the High Commission for
the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, London