Trinidad and Tobago is committed to regionalism, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Suruj Rambachan said on Friday, on the eve of the meeting of Caricom heads of governments. Rambachan said the T&T delegation was going to the summit, in Jamaica, with a will to promote regional unity and to address crucial issues affecting Caricom. One primary concern is security of the region, which, he maintains, is a priority matter.
In the midst of globalisation, bilateral relations were important, said Rambachan, and he cited improved ties with Canada as one example. He said Canada continued to support small states. The stalled Caribbean Single Market and Economy and assistance in reconstructing Haiti were also among matters for discussion, Rambachan said. He stated that there would be dialogue on the utilisation of money raised for the earthquake-stricken country.
He added that food security would also be on the agenda. The minister said the state of West Indies cricket was likely to be discussed during the summit. Asked about ties with Venezuela, Rambachan said that that country "is too important a neighbour with which not to have good relations." Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will lead the Trinidad and Tobago delegation, which will include Rambachan and Trade and Industry Minister Stephen Cadiz.