Op-ed from Embassy of the People's Republic of China in TT
WINSTON DOOKERAN
RIA CHAITRAM
AS THE WORLD continues to evolve and nations seek to strengthen their global presence, the diplomatic relationship between the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the People’s Republic of China stands as a remarkable example of successful international co-operation for a shared future for mankind. Established in 1974, this partnership has weathered the test of time, and has endured over the years.
TT’s first prime minister, Dr Eric Williams, made a historic official visit to China in October 1974 and in 2013, President Xi Jinping graced us with a similar state visit, which cemented the everlasting diplomatic and cultural friendship between our countries.
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations on June 20, we look with pride to the edifices that house our respective embassies in Port of Spain and Beijing, as the seats of our common quest for harmony and the pursuit of world peace. TT, as a small island developing state, is acutely aware of the urgency of global challenges and the need for collective action.
According to the publication Economic Diplomacy in the Caribbean (2023), the Caribbean is at the crossroads of global history and plays a crucial role in shaping international relations. TT remains a key supportive player in fostering international partnerships and sustainable development and through its unique diplomatic relationship with China, regardless of differences in size and geopolitical influence.
The historic visit by President Xi Jinping a little over a decade ago, further strengthened the relationship between TT and China, leading to active co-operation in areas such as distribution and logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, agri-technology, health, culture, and institutional links at the university level. Xi declared that, “Deepening bilateral ties serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and the two peoples. We will continue to improve high-level exchanges, enhance political trust, and promote practical co-operation.”
During Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley's visit to China in 2018, great emphasis was placed on co-operation and common grounds in addressing global challenges and our shared commitment to building a more interconnected and inclusive world, with the unique demands facing small states in the global arena.
To this end, the concept of a shared future for mankind, as outlined in A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions, becomes increasingly apparent that the interconnectedness of nations and peoples is more vital than ever before. The world today is faced with a myriad of global challenges that transcend borders – climate change, pandemics, economic instability and geopolitical tensions, to name a few.
China's vision of a shared future emphasises the importance of openness and inclusiveness, equity and justice, harmonious coexistence, diversity and mutual learning, democracy and unity, and co-operation am
