February 09, 2015: Trinidad and Tobago successfully secured the endorsement of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) for its candidature to host the Secretariat of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). This has ensured that Trinidad and Tobago’s bid was recognised and approved by the majority of States in the Western Hemisphere. The endorsement took place at the III Summit of Heads of State and Government of CELAC held during the period 28th to 29th January, 2015 in Costa Rica

The Trinidad and Tobago delegation led by the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and accompanied by the Honourable Winston Dookeran, Minister of Foreign Affairs was able to secure this endorsement which is reflected in three outcome documents issued at the Summit. These documents include the Special Declaration on the Candidacy of Trinidad and Tobago to host the Secretariat of the ATT; the Political Declaration of III Summit of Heads of State and Government of CELAC; and the Special Declaration on the Illicit Trafficking of Conventional Weapons.

The Arms Trade Treaty establishes common international standards for the movement of conventional arms and ammunition across borders. Trinidad and Tobago made a formal offer to host the Secretariat of the ATT as it was among the States which championed the adoption of a strong, robust and effective ATT and is well aware of the negative impact the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons has on Trinidad and Tobago and the wider CARICOM and Caribbean region.

For more information contact:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Levels 10 – 14 Tower C

International Waterfront Complex

1A Wrightson Road

 Tel: (868) 623-6894

Email: communications@foreign.gov.tt

Website: http://www.foreign.gov.tt