(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) As the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence on 31 August 2012, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) said that CARICOM Member State has much to be proud of.

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Kamal Persad-Bissessar, the Secretary-General lauded the role that Trinidad and Tobago has played regionally and internationally, singling out the championing of its leadership role in the Community, particularly in promoting security, sustainable development and renewable energy. In culture, sports and academics, Trinidad and Tobago has also made outstanding contributions, Ambassador LaRocque pointed out.

“I take this opportunity to encourage all Trinidadians and Tobagonians to continue to hold fast to their national motto of "Together we Aspire, Together we Achieve", as it is a maxim which is aptly applicable to the entire Region as we seek to deepen the process of regional integration and strive for a Community for All,” the Secretary-General said.

The full text of the message reads:

On behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), it is my distinct pleasure to extend to you and to the People of Trinidad and Tobago, warmest congratulations on this momentous milestone in your country's history - the celebration of the Republic's 50th Anniversary as an independent nation.

Your country's journey to this milestone has been one of triumph and great transformation and there is much for Trinidad and Tobago to be proud of as it has moved resolutely along the path to progress and prosperity. This steadfast determination reflects the resilience and fortitude of the people of Trinidad and Tobago who deservedly celebrate the many accomplishments of their nation.

Trinidad and Tobago, one of the inaugural signatories to the Treaty of Chaguaramas, is also recognized for the leadership and responsibility it has displayed in advancing and promoting citizen security and regional initiatives to combat crime, which form one of the pillars of the Community and is critical to the success of the regional integration movement. Moreover, the championing by Trinidad and Tobago of a number of important regional issues such as sustainable development and renewable energy in various international fora, has yielded global recognition and support for the Community. Trinidad and Tobago's outstanding contributions in the arenas of culture, sports and academics, among others, have also gained worldwide recognition.

I take this opportunity to encourage all Trinidadians and Tobagonians to continue to hold fast to their national motto of "Together we Aspire, Together we Achieve", as it is a maxim which is aptly applicable to the entire Region as we seek to deepen the process of regional integration and strive for a Community for All.

I join with the Caribbean Community, Honourable Prime Minister, in wishing you and the people of Trinidad and Tobago best wishes for the continued development and prosperity of your country, and look forward to the ongoing and active participation of Trinidad and Tobago in the activities of the Caribbean Community.