KINGSTON, Jamaica – Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on Wednesday opened the new High Commission office in Jamaica, during her visit to attend the Special Summit between Caribbean Community (CARICOM) heads of State and Government with US President Barack Obama.

“The symbolism of today’s event is very strong, and is steeped in the story of two nations that share a long, cordial history of growing together, working together and achieving together,” she said in her address.

Persad-Bissessar added: “By their geographic locations, our two countries can be considered the sentinels of our region. Jamaica is at the northern end of the archipelago of English-speaking Caribbean islands, and Trinidad & Tobago is at the southern end.

“We are the two most influential and populous nations of the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

“In 1962 our nations’ leaders understood that the choice of Independence offered the greatest hope for forging our own identity and destiny," she said.

Meanwhile, the T&T prime minister said the building, which houses the high commission, signifies the strength and permanence which the twin island republic views its relationship with Jamaica.

 “We have enjoyed 52 years of diplomatic and trade relations with Jamaica, but this is the first time that Trinidad & Tobago has had the physical visibility which this building, our own building, now offers," she said.

Trinidad &Tobago PM opens High Commission office in Jamaica