In more Caribbean news, His Excellency Garvin Nicholas, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Kingdom, has concluded his visit to Liverpool, a whirlwind trip which saw the High Commissioner convene with the Lord Mayor and business heads on boosting trade and tourism links between Liverpool and Trinidad and Tobago.
The trip, which took place on May 28th – 29th, highlighted the High Commissioner’s objective of developing more profound trade and business connections in all major hubs of the United Kingdom.
The High Commissioner engaged in talks with the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Gary Millar, with discussions focused on the myriad commercial and investment opportunities at hand in Trinidad and Tobago.
Councillor Millar described the meeting with the High Commissioner as highly productive, stating “I am excited about the prospect of future collaboration with Trinidad and Tobago. We have many similar areas of focus such as tourism development, and there is much we can learn from each other”.
The High Commissioner was pleased with the inroads which had been established with public and private sector stakeholders in Liverpool. A business reception was held at the Liverpool Town Hall with guests including representatives from Liverpool Vision and the Chamber of Commerce.
High Commissioner Garvin Nicholas (right) during his meeting with Liverpool Lord Mayor Gary Millar.
Officers from the High Commission delivered presentations on trade and investment opportunities and the tourism industry in Trinidad and Tobago, which were well received by the crowd.
The High Commissioner remarked, “The City of Liverpool and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago share much in common with regard to our mutual emphasis on new business development in areas such as film and tourism. In particular, as a leader in maritime commerce, Liverpool can be a key partner in Trinidad and Tobago’s port development initiatives”.
Trinidad and Tobago nationals living in the city also had the opportunity to meet with the High Commissioner at a Diaspora reception on Tuesday 28th May.
Meeting with Trinidad and Tobago nationals was high on the High Commissioner’s agenda. “It is important to me that our nationals abroad feel that they are part of a close-knit Diaspora community,” he stated. “I am appreciative of these opportunities which afford me the chance to interact personally with our nationals, and I am keen to revitalise connections with Trinidad and Tobago nationals who have contributed to Liverpool’s dynamic society”.
The High Commissioner was afforded the opportunity to tour the city on an open bus tour, and was markedly impressed by Liverpool’s strident approach to tourism.
A noteworthy stop on the tour was the newly refurbished Central Library, a particular point of pride for Liverpudlians after its three-year, £55 million overhaul. Nicholas noted its inclusive environment and the combination of stunning, innovative facilities within the historic building.
“Liverpool is a city which successfully capitalises on its historic sites and unique heritage to promote tourism, which is an area Trinidad and Tobago can learn valuable lessons”, he said. The High Commissioner also visited the Liverpool Slavery Museum, where he was struck by the comprehensive detailing of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.
A highlight of the visit was the Air Cadets’ Parade on Tuesday which featured the 7F Squadron (City of Liverpool) ATC. The High Commissioner himself participated in an awards ceremony honouring two young cadets for their outstanding achievements.
His Excellency presented a blue lanyard to 18 year old Cadet Sergeant Guglielnio Marenco for completing the (QUAIC) Qualified Aviation Instructor Cadet Course. He also presented a maroon lanyard to 18 year old Cadet Flight Sergeant Joseph Campion for successful completion of a 9 month Junior Leaders course.
It was a significant moment for both the High Commissioner and the 7F Squadron, whose cadets are the only two in the United Kingdom to receive accolades from the Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner.
His Excellency addressed the Squadron, recounting his personal experience as a cadet in Trinidad and Tobago, stating “this experience is something which will always stay with you. The strength of character you develop here will serve you well for the rest of your lives”.
The High Commissioner’s two-day visit yielded considerable attention for Trinidad and Tobago not only as a highly attractive centre for investment but as a preferred destination for tourism.
“It is imperative that we seek new opportunities internationally for our unique and exciting product mix,” Nicholas declared. “As a consequence of our stay in Liverpool I anticipate significant interest in our country’s diverse offerings.
Our Mission is in a pivotal position to capitalise on these opportunities for investment and collaboration, and will build a bridge between Liverpool and by extension, the United Kingdom and Trinidad and Tobago”.
