Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Volume
MarchApril 2006 September 2006
Inside this Issue T&T assumes Presidency of the Summit of the Americas
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Repairs to 889 schools in five years
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US$4b in Projects for Pt. Lisas
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rinidad and Tobago's Trade and Industry Minister, the Hon. Kenneth Valley and Dr Peter Ammon, T&T makes impact Director General for Economic Affairs 6 with Trade Mission and Sustainable Development of the to Europe Federal Foreign Office of Germany, signed on behalf of their two nations, a th Republic Day 10 Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) on 9 celebration at the September, 2006. The BIT is designed TTHC to protect the commercial interests of both German and Trinidad and Tobago financiers and investors as they conduct Minster Kenneth Valley and Dr. Peter Ammon sign the T&T takes over 12 business between the two countries. historic document in Germany. Assisting The Hon. London’s Trafalgar Valley is Ms. Sandra Trotman of the Ministry Minister Valley was in Germany Minister Square of Foreign Affairs, Trinidad and Tobago. heading a Trinidad and Tobago Investment Mission to five European T&T Cultural 13 nations. The Federal Republic of Germany is Team Thrills Trinidad and Tobago’s third largest foreign Parisians “This is an historic agreement, the idea for direct investor, particularly in the which was first generated in 1963 by Dr petrochemical sector, especially with regard New Miss T&T UK 14 Eric Williams and here we are today to methanol. Germany´s current actually putting in place, the structure for Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. crowned protecting our mutual investments,” said Helmut Ohlraun, is resident in Port of Minister Valley. According to Dr Ammon, Spain and accredited to all CARICOM the BIT is a mechanism for securing states (except Jamaica), as well as investment between both countries and lays Suriname, Montserrat, Anguilla and the the foundation for further business co- British Virgin Islands. E-mail the Editor at: operation and integration. The Federal tthc.information Republic of Germany and Trinidad and The BIT, officially known as the ´Treaty @btconnect.com Tobago have had diplomatic relations at Between the Republic of Trinidad and ambassadorial level since 1962. Tobago and the Federal Republic of (Continues on page 9)
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LONDON MISSION
Visit to Manchester by His Excellency the President
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is Excellency Professor George Maxwell Richards, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, visited Manchester from September 7 to 9, 2006, to attend the Chemical Engineering 50th Anniversary Reunion at the University of Manchester, his alma mater.
H.E. Professor George Maxwell Richards
His Excellency was the guest of honour at the
Reunion and he delivered an after-dinner speech at a dinner that was held in honour of the invited guests. The Reunion was well attended with alumni arriving from different parts of the world. A packed two-day programme was planned and His Excellency was a full participant until his departure from Manchester.
Trinidad & Tobago assumes Presidency of The Summit of The Americas Process
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rinidad and Tobago assumed the Presidency of the Summit of the Americas Process on Wednesday, August 13, and will host the Fifth Summit in 2009. This is the first time that a CARICOM country has held the Presidency and a Summit will be held Sen. Dr. the Hon. in the Caribbean. Lenny Saith, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, and Minister of Public Administration and Information
The transfer of the Presidency from Argentina to Trinidad and Tobago took place at the XLVI Ministerial Meeting of the Summit Implementation Review Group (SIRG) held at the Headquarters of the Organization of American States in Washington DC. Trinidad and Tobago was represented at the meeting by Minister of Energy and Energy Industries and Minister of Public Administration, and Information, Sen. Dr. the Hon. Lenny Saith, who received the symbol of the transfer of the Presidency - the Inukshuk - which represents leadership, friendship and cooperation. Also attending the meeting were H.E. Marina Valère, Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the OAS and Ms. LauraMarie West, National Coordinator for the Summit of the Americas Process at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Trinidad and Tobago. The Summit of the Americas brings together the Heads of State and Government to discuss common concerns, seek solutions and develop a shared vision for the future development of the region. Four previous Summits have been held in Florida, (1994), Chile (1998), Canada (2001) and Mar del Plata, Argentina (2005). The mandates of the Summits include a focus on Democracy, Hemispheric Security, Disaster Management, Sustainable Development, Education, Health, Connectivity and Labour. At this meeting, OAS Secretary General, José Miguel Insulza, congratulated Trinidad and Tobago on the
assumption of the Presidency and "encouraged all member states to support the Government of Trinidad and Tobago as it embarks upon the work of the next Summit." In his address, Minister Saith said that it was "a special honour and privilege for Trinidad and Tobago to receive the full support of member states for what will undeniably be a challenging but very rewarding undertaking." He said that "Our country has been an avid proponent of this Summit Process since its inception in December 1994 when the First Summit of the Americas was held in Miami, Florida. "We have sought to demonstrate our commitment to the Summit process through, but not limited to, our offer to host the site of the Headquarters of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA); the hosting of the Fourth Meeting of the Ministers of Education in Tobago in August 2005; and the hosting of the XV Inter-American Meeting of Ministers of Labour in September 2007, for which preparations are proceeding apace. "Our nation’s developmental agenda also embraces the pan -Caribbean region to which we are irrevocably and solidly committed and in which the development of Trinidad and Tobago and CARICOM is intertwined. However, globalization and advances in technology have mandated that Trinidad and Tobago’s developmental agenda must also contain a Pan-Americas component reflective of its relationship with the wider hemisphere. It was, therefore, against this background that the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Patrick Manning, took the opportunity to offer Trinidad and Tobago as the host of the Fifth Summit of the Americas in 2009, while attending the Mar del Plata Summit." Minister Saith said , "Trinidad and Tobago, motivated by the desire to contribute towards the improvement of the lives of 800 million people living in the Americas, looks forward to facilitating the continuation of the process through the hosting of the 2009 Summit."
LONDON MISSION
Attention Nationals
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From Monday 30thOctober to Friday 10th November, 2006, the High Commissioner Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip, invites you all to come view the artistic talents of Trinidad Tobago, on display at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT Art Exhibition - “Small Country -Big Passion” Featuring 5 prominent artists from Trinidad and Tobago Viewing hours are 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday
Repairs to 889 schools in five years
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eachers a n d students at fifty-one schools found new equipment and furniture in their classrooms Senator the Hon. when they Hazel Manning, r e t u r n e d to Minister of school at the Education beginning of the academic year in September. This is the result of the Ministry of Education’s School Repair Programme.
This programme is an annual attempt by the Ministry to provide a safer and more secure environment for teachers and students, and moreso, to address the deterioration of schools, many of which are over 50 years old. One hundred and sixty -six of the schools in Trinidad and Tobago that had outdated electrical wiring , poor sanitation and structural systems, inadequate student capacity and dilapidated classrooms, were repaired by Independence Day 2006. Minor works are continuing at some schools.
This is the fith year that the Ministry of Education undertook major works during the July-August school vacation and the Minister of Education, Senator the Hon. Hazel Manning said that she was impressed with the quality and the volume of construction projects. The Hon. Minister made known that in the five year period 2002 – 2006, new furniture and equipment had been installed at 279 schools and that rehabilitation, extension and improvement works had been initiated at 889 schools across the country.
Prime Minister busy on the diplomatic front
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r i m e Minister P a t r i c k Manning (pictured left) conducted several high-powered meetings on the morning of September 8, 2006. He met first with the President of the InterAmerican Development Bank Mr. Luis Moreno. Discussions focused on housing and social sector programmes, as well as poverty eradication in the country and assistance in hosting the next Summit of the Americas scheduled to be held in Trinidad and Tobago in early 2009. The Hon. Prime Minister then met with Assistant Secretary of State in
the Department of Energy in the United States of America, Karen Harbert and Deputy Assistant Secretary, Patrick Duddy of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs in the State Department. At these meetings, Prime Minister Manning raised again matters discussed during his visits to the United States of America where he met with President George W. Bush in 2003 and Vice President Dick Cheney recently. He re-emphasized the points discussed then which involved goods packaged in Trinidad and Tobago for export to the United States of America to be afforded duty free access; Article 98 Exemption from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court; energy; security matters and the
provision of financial assistance to provide security in the Eastern Caribbean to combat the drug and illegal weapons trade. Prime Minister Manning met thereafter with the Prime Minister of Aruba, Mr. Nelson Oduber and other Aruban officials. The two Prime Ministers discussed energy assistance to be given to Aruba, similar to that offered to Belize, in the development of Aruba’s energy industry. The Hon. Prime Minister then met with Ms. Vicky Bailey, former Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Energy, where issues relating to energy security were discussed.
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LONDON MISSION
Trinidad and Tobago Celebrates major Milestone
n September 16, 2006, BHP Billiton Trinidad and Tobago celebrated a major milestone as its Central Processing Platform (CPP) achieved two years with no lost time injuries. The Greater Angostura Development located in Block 2(c) is operated by BHP Billiton Trinidad and Tobago, on behalf of its joint venture partners Total and Talisman Energy.
lasted seventeen (17) days, included the CPP, satellite platforms and the onshore terminal. All work was completed without incident.
This achievement is especially significant in light of the fact that, during the year, the team was able to achieve production in excess of plans and undertook a full scheduled maintenance shut-down. The planned shutdown, which
Vincent Pereira, President of BHP Billiton Trinidad and Tobago, congratulated the team on the extraordinary accomplishment: “Last year I challenged the team to repeat their exceptional safety
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The safety milestone is a tribute to the full commitment of BHP Billiton Trinidad and Tobago staff and contractors who are all dedicated to Zero Harm in day to day operations.
performance from the prior year, and they delivered. It is extremely gratifying that everyone in this organisation is fully committed to our ideal of Zero Harm. Safety milestones like this one are a real reflection of a tremendous overall effort.” The CPP was installed off the northeast coast of Trinidad in September 2004 and is one of five platforms that make up the Greater Angostura Development’s offshore infrastructure. This is where crude oil is processed prior to being shipped to the Onshore Terminal facility at Guayaguayare.
US $4B in projects for Pt. Lisas
he Point Lisas Industrial Estate is to benefit from projects worth US$4 billion, Energy Minister Sen. Dr the Hon. Lenny Saith said.
would be producing steel sheets which would provide the platform for manufacturing activity in the automotive industry.
Minister Saith delivered the feature address recently at an energy luncheon hosted by the Couva-Point Lisas Chamber of Commerce at the Kam-Po Restaurant in Chaguanas.
NUCOR was also proposing to go further downstream with its operations in T&T, this according to the Hon. Minster. Cabinet had already given the green light for T&T’s first gas-to-liquids plant proposed for Point-a-Pierre under a joint venture agreement between World GTL and Petrotrin to produce 2200 barrels per day of diesel and naptha from 18.4 million cubic feet of gas.
Saith said that discussions towards defining project agreements were continuing for the establishment of a US$1.6 billion ethylene complex and maleic anhydride processing facility. He said that construction had already started on a US$1.2 billon petrochemical facility to produce melamine and urea ammonium nitrite for the first time in Trinidad and Tobago. The above mentioned products would have great scope for downstream producers in the areas of plastic products, detergents, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, paints and furniture. The Hon. Minister disclosed that Essar Steel’s US$1.2 billion integrated iron and steel complex
Minister Saith said that the possibility of future LNG trains would only happen after domestic gas demands were satisfied. He stated that the continuing expansion of the natural gas sector has meant that Government’s fiscal policy for the sector must now be re-visited to optimise the country's returns from these resources. He said the Finance Bill for 2006 has now incorporated the monitoring of LNG along with other petroleum products, while the government is drafting legislation to
deal specifically with natural gas. According to Dr. Saith, gas demands on the Point Lisas estate were expected to grow to two billion cubic feet per day by 2009 and expand to 5.5 billion cubic feet per day by 2016, across a more diversified portfolio. In the search for more gas, Minister Saith said that new acreage for exploration was being explored offshore while government is seeking ways to advance cross-border talks with Venezuela for the unitisation of reserves that straddle the borders of both countries. Answering questions from the media, Minister Saith was adamant that the failure of the $0.5 billion Ibis Deep Well should not serve as a deterrent to future petroleum exploration. Ibis Deep, he said, was an example of how hard it was to find oil. Minister Saith was quoted as saying, “Drilling for hydrocarbons is a risky business and I am told if you get one in four, one in five you are doing well. We would have liked it to be successful but it wasn't, we have blocks out and we will see what happens and I am sure interest would
LONDON MISSION
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MEET OUR NEW MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS by Ashton Ford
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fter serving for three and a half years as Trinidad and Tobago’s High Commissioner to Canada, Mr. Arnold Piggott (pictured) was appointed the new Minister of Foreign Affairs by Prime Minister the Hon. Patrick Manning.
Mr. Piggott replaces Mr. Knowlson Gift who held the portfolio for the last five years. In selecting Mr. Piggott as the new Minister, Prime Minister Manning stated that his administration planed to restructure the entire Foreign Affairs Ministry and review the nation’s foreign policy. Mr. Piggott comes to the office with experience in the Cabinet having served as the Minister of Works and
Transport in 2001- 2002. Prime Minister Manning paid tribute to Mr. Gift saying that “he has served the country well.” The new Minister told reporters after his swearing in at President’s House that he expected support from the staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in order to implement the changes announced by the Prime Minister.
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n Friday September 29, the Ministry of Tourism hosted a Gala Cocktail Reception in commemoration of the historic visit to Trinidad and Tobago of Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, for the celebration of World Tourism Week.
During the Gala Cocktail Reception, the Ministry of Tourism paid special tribute to the Trinidad and Tobago National Culinary Team who were successful over the past four years in the “TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN” Culinary Competitions organised by the Caribbean Hotel Association. The premier event for the professional development of Caribbean chefs, “TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN” strives to promote the development and refinement of contemporary Caribbean cuisine, incorporating indigenous ingredients and Caribbean culture and traditions. Led by local chef, Debra Sardinha-Metivier, the Trinidad and Tobago Culinary Team – Culinary ’Warriors” Bernard Long, Raymond Joseph and Tricia CorbinOliveire have consistently outshone all their Caribbean competitors. The Trinidad and Tobago Culinary Team is the only Caribbean destination that has won Team of the Year twice and these four (4) members of the team were instrumental in this achievement. Details regarding the team’s achievements are as follows: 2004 Team Competition. Secured Gold Medal, Team of the
Senator the Honourable Howard Chin Lee, Minister of Tourism, presents Vincent Vanderpool, Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, with a gift token in commemoration of World Tourism Day.
Year and Team with the Most Professional Standards Individual Competition – Bernard Long – Gold, Raymond Joseph - Silver and Tricia Corbin-Oliverie Bronze 2005 Team Competition. Secured Silver Medal and Team with the Most Professional Standards Individual Competition – Debra Sardinha-Metivier – Silver, Bernard Long - Silver and Raymond Joseph Silver 2006 Team Competition. Secured Gold Medal and Team of the Year Individual Competition –Tricia Corbin-Oliverie – Gold, Bernard Long – Silver and Raymond Joseph - Silver (Continues on page 15)
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LONDON MISSION
Trinidad and Tobago makes impact with
Trade Mission to Europe by Ashton Ford German and Trinidad and Tobago delegates at the Head Table at the Trade Forum in Germany. From left: Gordon Dean, Erwin Keutner, Peter Lewis, The Hon. Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry,Matthias Wietbrock and Edwina Leacok, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
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he recently concluded Trade and Investment Mission undertaken by the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was geared towards promoting the country as the preferred destination for Foreign Direct Investment and to market local high quality goods and services in the European market. Led by the Minister of Trade and Industry the Honourable Kenneth Valley, the Mission’s main objectives were to increase awareness about Trinidad and Tobago in Europe through maintaining the existing investment business as well as creating new investments in the target sectors for development. The Mission also sought to promote the country as an attractive and enabling business environment; adv ert ise Trinidad and Tobago as an internationally dedicated and competitive Mr. Khalid Hassanali makes his address b u s i n e s s destination and at the seminar in the United Kingdom. partner and in particular, promote the twin island as a source of high quality goods and services.
The programme of activities during the visit to the five nations, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain and the Republic of Ireland, included ministerial meetings, Seminars on Trade and Investment Opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago, investor meetings and business to business meetings between the local and private sector and the European business community. The Mission also featured cultural shows at various venues (both indoor and outdoor) at each European country that highlighted steelband music, calypso and dance. Minister Kenneth Valley said that the Mission was very successful and expressed the hope that the follow-up actions would ensure that the transformation of Trinidad and Tobago into a developed country was assured. The Mission came about as a result of the country’s successful participation in the 2006 World Cup Finals in Germany in June. Her Excellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner, London accompanied the team on their visits to Germany and the Republic of Ireland and was host for the United Kingdom leg of the trip. (more details on pages 7,8,9,11 & 12)
LONDON MISSION
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he Trade and Investment Mission led by the Honourable Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry visited London during the period September 21-23, 2006. The Ministerial Mission included government and business officials. Its objectives were to build an awareness of the business acumen of Trinidad and Tobago and to present prospective investors with several business opportunities for direct or joint venture participation. In keeping with the aforementioned objectives, the Trade Mission culminated in a Business Forum which was held at the Institute of Directors (IOD) on September 21, 2006. The delegates at the forum consisted of several major investors, representatives of companies with business interests in Trinidad and Tobago, other prospective investors and representatives from the UK media. The programme for the forum covered the following sectors: . Trade and Investment . Energy . Finance The forum was chaired by the eminent David Jessop, Director of the Caribbean Council. The introduction was made by Ms. Edwina Leacock, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the opening address was delivered by the Honourable Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry.
by Geoff Lowe
The Honourable Kenneth Valley being interviewed by the BBC’s Debbie Ransome while in London.
Trade and Investment Initially, there was a DVD presentation on investment and business opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago followed by presentations on: . Local Private Sector Perspective – Mr. Gordon Deane, Past President, Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce . Investing in Trinidad and Tobago – Mr. Khalid Hassanali, President, Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise Development Co Ltd (eTecK) Energy Energy, a multi billion dollar industry – Presentations were made by: Mr. Vincent Pereira, BHP Billiton Trinidad and Tobago; Mrs. Nicole Beaubrun-Toby, BPTT and Mrs. Nicola Gipson, BG Group. Finance Trinidad and Tobago’s financial role in the Caribbean – Mr. Lyndon Guiseppi, Managing Director, RBTT Merchant Bank.
Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and a member of the Trade Mission, enjoying a chat with London Businesswomen attending the Forum.
After a question and answer session, the closing remarks were made by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, London, who thanked the Honourable Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Investment, Chair, Mr. David Jessop, the panel of presenters and the delegates for their participation. This was then followed by a networking luncheon.
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LONDON MISSION
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reland, one of the economic success stories of the last decade, Ireland is of interest to Trinidad and Tobago because the country has been able to transform its economy from dependence on agriculture and agroprocessing to one of the major information and service centres worldwide. While the two countries differ in terms of size and level of development, many of the issues currently facing Trinidad and Tobago were challenges for the Irish and they have been able to create mechanisms for resolving these difficulties.
The Hon Minister Kenneth Valley, H.E. Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip and Deputy Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Daithi Doolan.
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proposal towards establishing a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between Trinidad and Tobago and the Republic of Ireland was one of the major issues coming out of discussions between Trinidad and Tobago’s Trade and Industry Minister the Hon. Kenneth Valley and the Hon. Bertie Ahern, Prime Minister of the Republic of Ireland, during the Trinidad and Tobago Investment Mission to that country. Minister Valley headed the mission, which included Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinaire, His Excellency Mr. Jerry Narace, Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean-Phillip, High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, technical officers of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and representatives of trade and investment promotion agencies such as Eteck and the Business Development Company Limited. Ireland was the first stop for the Mission, whose itinerary included London, Berlin, Frankfurt, Paris and Madrid. The objective was to promote Trinidad and Tobago as the best place for business and investment in the Caribbean , with particular emphasis on the non-energy sector. In addition to the proposed BIT, Minister Valley and Prime Minister Ahern agreed in principle to an Irish Trade Mission, consisting of technocrats and business people, visiting Trinidad and Tobago in January, and to fast-tracking the establishment of stronger diplomatic relations between the two countries.
According to Minister Valley, “This mission, which has allowed us to set the framework for deepening economic relations between our countries, provides us with an ideal opportunity to share and learn from the experiences of another nation, and perhaps apply their approaches within certain areas and of course, in a manner best suited to our particular experience. In addition,” said Minister Valley, “Trinidad and Tobago can share its own experience with Ireland with regard to their nascent oil and gas sector.” The Trinidad and Tobago mission was designed to leverage on the recent high profile enjoyed by Trinidad and Tobago in Europe due to the performance of the Soca Warriors at the World Cup in Germany. For the MTI team, this was the ideal opportunity to promote our nation as the ideal place for business and investment in the Greater Caribbean region, as there is a high level of interest in Trinidad and Tobago on the European continent. Along with the visit to Prime Minister Ahern, the Trinidad and Tobago team hosted a breakfast seminar on business opportunities in the country, met with Ireland’s Treasury Management Agency and participated in a working lunch hosted by Digicel, who provided strong networking support for the Team during their visit to Ireland. At the luncheon, the Team met with senior business executives, including representatives of Keyland Group (parent company of caribbeanjobs.com), Island-Capital, Jurys Doyle Hotel Group and Marina Marketing and Management Ltd. On their second and last day in Ireland, the team visited the Irish Development Agency, City West (a large technology park) and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Vincent Jackson.
LONDON MISSION
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rinidad and Tobago and the Kingdom of Spain have long-standing economic and cultural ties, starting from the earliest days when this country was an outpost of the Spanish empire, right up to the present where Repsol-YPF, a Spanish firm and the largest private energy company in Latin America, has major investments in our energy sector. Spain is one of five European countries targeted for investment promotion by the Government and the Investment Mission to Europe launched its Madrid work program with a meeting at the Spanish Foreign Ministry with the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Alberto Leon. Some of the major issues which arose at this meeting included the fact that the Spanish Government held Trinidad and Tobago in high regard and envisaged this country as pivotal to Spain’s future commercial bilateral relationship with the Caribbean. In particular, Spain was anxious to establish its Embassy in Port of Spain as soon as possible. The Trinidad and Tobago delegation also hosted a Business Seminar for potential investors, in collaboration with the Madrid Chamber of Commerce (La Cámara de Madrid). Along with presentations from the Government team and local private sector representatives, participants also heard from Pedro Vaticon, a senior executive of Repsol-YPF, who outlined the positive experiences of his organisation, the business-friendly climate in Trinidad and Tobago and the possibilities for
Treaty Signed
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investment in downstream petrochemicals and the nonenergy sector. The delegation also met with Mr. Pedro Mejia, Secretary of State for Commerce and Tourism, and participated in a working dinner organised by the Madrid Chamber, which included senior officials from the Spanish private sector, in particular the manufacturing, aeronautics, transport and hotel/resort development areas. At the dinner, Trade and Industry Minister the Hon. Kenneth Valley, who headed the Mission, stressed the opportunities available for investment in Trinidad and Tobago’s non-energy sector. Business and investment were not the only areas of focus for the group. Members of the Team also visited the Instituto Cervantes, the organisation charged with promoting Spanish language and culture worldwide, to explore possible areas of assistance for the ‘Spanish as the First Foreign Language’ (SAFFL) initiative in T&T. Instituto Cervantes indicated the possibility of providing access to their internet training program and institutional support via teacher training, both of which would require some private/public collaboration in terms of funding. For Spain and Trinidad and Tobago, the future holds significant opportunities for business and various Spanish private sector firms have indicated that they will be visiting Trinidad and Tobago very soon to pursue investment opportunities.
(Continued from page 1) Minister Valley, Deputy Mayor of Frankfurt, Mayor of Frankfurt, H.E. Mrs . Morean Phillip and T&T’s Honorary Consul, Bernd Listner in Bonn, Germany
Germany concerning the Encouragement and Reciprocal Protection of Investments´, has the following main objectives: •
To intensify economic co-operation to the mutual benefit of both states
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To create favorable conditions for investments by nationals of either state in the territory of either state
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To provide support for the contractual protection
of these investments and thereby stimulate private business initiatives and increase the prosperity of both nations •
To provide a sound underpinning for the complimentary role of foreign investments in the process of economic development
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To support moves to protect the environment* *This last initiative is an innovation in Treaties of this nature.
According to Minister Valley, Trinidad and Tobago is committed to supporting the development of joint ventures strategic partnerships between German and Trinidad and Tobago firms. He indicated that this Treaty was all part of the overall economic approach to encouraging Foreign Direct Investment in the nonenergy sector of the economy, as part of the overall economic diversification thrust.
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LONDON MISSION
Address by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip at a reception held to commemorate Republic Day at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London. Left: Nationals at the reception.
M
y staff, my husband and I are truly pleased to welcome you to this reception as Trinidad and Tobago celebrates the 30th Anniversary of achieving Republican status. On September 24, 1976, Trinidad and Tobago relinquished its ties with the Monarchy as Head of State by adopting a new Constitution and appointing a President as our Head of State, who replaced the Governor General, the Queen’s representative. Trinidad and Tobago has matured in those thirty years and as with maturity, we have had our challenges and I must say, we will continue to have our challenges. However, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today I want to spend just a few minutes to highlight some of the positives in terms of the outstanding gains which Trinidad and Tobago has achieved from proper planning and development of its natural resources. •
For almost a decade our twin island Republic with a population of 1.3 million has been the world’s leader in the exports of methanol and ammonia and a key player in the liquefied natural gas market, supplying in excess of 70 % of the needs of the United States of America;
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In 2006, our economy is expected to grow at a rate of approximately 8%, one of the highest globally, and record positive growth for the 13th consecutive year;
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Our employment rate has never been lower;
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Our trade balance is burgeoning;
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Our international reserves are climbing;
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Higher incomes are leading to strong growth of bank deposits and mutual funds;
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Our long-term foreign currency rating has moved to investment grade; and
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We continue to attract mega foreign direct investment projects.
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The Government of Trinidad and Tobago signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Westlake Chemical Corporation formalising an agreement to conduct a feasibility study for the development of an ethylene complex which will lead to the creation of a globally competitive sustainable plastics industry; and
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An Understudy Programme involving mentor/ mentee relationship has been set up in order to allow our nationals to benefit from the operational experience of visiting expatriates.
As part of its diversification efforts, and in its attempt to achieve developed-country status by 2020, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is also investing in the development of a cluster of technology industries linked to the University of Trinidad and Tobago. This cluster is crucial to developing a sustainable non-energy sector in order to capitalize on expanded market access opportunities. Recognising that energy resources are finite, the Government has identified seven priority industries for business development. These are Yachting, Fish and Fish Processing, Merchant and Marine, Music and Entertainment, Film, Printing and Packaging, and Food and Beverages. This Mission culminated in a c u l t u r a l Dr. Floella Benjamin, one of three performance at Trafalgar nationals to receive an Outstanding S q u a r e l a s t Achievement Award on the night. Friday. Members of Exodus Steel Orchestra, some of our renowned calypsonians, Denyse Plummer, and dancers provided a taste of Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse culture to a totally captivatied audience. In telling the Trinidad and Tobago story, we cannot neglect the tourism factor of our economy. Therefore, today, we are providing a little taste of our culture with the knowledge that some of you will be planning your vacation in Trinidad and Tobago during our Carnival period which is from February 19 to 20, 2007. So do relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.
LONDON MISSION
Commentary
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Courtesy
by William Lucie-Smith
arly September I was one of the privileged guests to be invited by British Gas (T&T) to their inaugural energy luncheon, at which Prime Minister Patrick Manning was the feature speaker.
First Derek Hudson, BG’s Chief of Staff, explained that the purpose of the luncheon series was to demystify the energy sector and explore its linkages with the rest of the economy. Craig McKenzie, President of BG T&T, indicated that over the last ten years Trinidad and Tobago had become a “global gas leader” and that his company was “bullish” about the future, preparing to invest US$1 billion over the next four years. Feature speaker, the Hon. Patrick Manning, then entertained the audience for 45 minutes with an authoritative presentation on Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. Clearly comfortable with the material and the audience, Mr. Manning made one of the most lucid and informative presentations I have ever heard him make, underlining why Derek Hudson had referred to him as “the energy Prime Minister.” Building on the foundation laid by Craig McKenzie, Mr. Manning indicated that T&T’s importance was not based on the size of our reserves. Our reserves are estimated at less than 0.5 per cent of global gas and 0.1 per cent of global oil, making us a very small player indeed. We also have a very low ratio of reserves to production. Despite this we are: the no.1 exporter of methanol; the no. 1 exporter of ammonia; the no.1 producer of methanol; the no.6 producer of DRI; the no.1 exporter of LNG in the West. The low reserves to production mislead many into believing that our reserves will soon be depleted. Mr. Manning believes that this is an entirely false conclusion as our very complex geology, combined with aggressive exploration, continues to replenish our reserves and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. I am sure we all hope he is right as the consequences of being wrong would be very serious. Regardless of the size of our reserves, though, the policy of monetising them is one with which I agree.
Trinidad and Tobago’s development model has been such that we have sought out to assist Belize and Equatorial Guinea in developing their energy sector. Indeed, as part of Trinidad and Tobago’s contribution to the eradication of world poverty this country remains willing and able to assist African countries in their energy industries. It may be that we are small in production but we are big in intellectual capital, and assistance is an obligation Mr. Manning is willing to accept. While on the theme of obligation Mr. Manning made reference to Trinidad and Tobago’s contribution to both CARICOM energy security and, in a small way, to United States energy security. This part of the presentation gathered much press coverage. Mr. Manning mused as to whether Venezuela, through Petro Caribe, would honour this obligation to CARICOM. He also chided the United States for being so preoccupied with the war on terror that they had given too low a priority to Caribbean security and the war on drugs. It was the drug cartels’ new freedom that was causing the increase in guns and violence in Trinidad and Tobago and we needed much greater assistance from the US in policing the eastern Caribbean. This was after all part of US security and the drug menace was a US problem. Whatever the feelings about the wisdom of these forthright comments, I have heard few disagree with Mr. Manning on the subject. The stability of the Caribbean and its security ought to be an obligation the United States should recognise in its own interest. The only part of Mr. Manning’s speech with which I was not in full agreement was when he tried to justify the vast construction programme as part of necessary human development that would lead to greater productivity in the public sector. There is now a large and increasing groundswell of opinion that challenges the need for the Tarouba Sports Complex, the Savannah cultural centre and other projects while schools, hospitals, roads, and other basic infrastructure remain substandard. I also believe we need to save a larger portion of our current revenues. Mr. Manning partially acknowledged these needs when he indicated that he would tap energy expertise in dealing with his major headache at WASA. However, whatever our feelings about economic as fiscal management, the Prime Minister gets good grades for his vision.
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LONDON MISSION
T&T takes centre stage at London’s Trafalgar Square by Ashton Ford
N
ationals in London reaffirmed on September 15 that “God is a Trini” as the rain poured for most of the day and stopped at around 4 pm to facilitate the open air concert by the T&T cultural contingent at Trafalgar Square, London, featuring calypso, pan and dance.
The calypso-starved crowd virtually became a chorus group as they sang along with Denyse Plummer during her rendition of ‘Nah Leaving’ and a medley of retro Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip welcomes patrons at the start of a truly memorable evening. calypsoes from the archives of Sparrow, Kitchener and Calypso Rose. Sagicor Exodus Steel Orchestra opened the programme promptly at 5.30 pm playing the late Sniper’s ‘Portrait of T&T,’ and carried on with popular tunes from the repertoires of Sparrow and Kitchener. The show was the final part of the programme of the T&T Trade Mission which toured five nations— Republic of Ireland, Germany, Spain, France and United Kingdom—between September 5-23. Eric Taylor, better known as Pink Panther, also moved the crowd with his rendition of Kitchener’s ‘Sugar Bum Bum,’ imitating the trademark dance moves of the late great Grandmaster. He was accompanied by Exodus.
Pink Panther entertains the crowd with his rendition of a Lord Kitchener performance.
Also featured on the evening were the dance items; the dancers were accompanied by Exodus to the strains of David Rudder’s ‘Ganges meet the Nile’ and other popular pieces. Former policeman, Kenny J got a good response from the 2,000-plus persons in attendance, who sang along with him as he rendered ‘sweet soca music.’ After the traditional limbo dance, a jump-up, with Exodus playing Shurwayne Winchester’s ‘Look the Band Coming,’ brought the show to a climax promptly at 7.30 pm, giving the crowd a full two hours of T&T culture. Earlier, High Commissioner to London Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip thanked the crowd for its attendance and also the Ministry of Culture for sending the cultural contingent along with the Trade Mission .
And of course...the Queen of Calypso - Denise Plummer - was a huge hit with the gathering of Trinis and Londoners alike.
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T&T Cultural Team thrills Parisians
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he Trinidad and Tobago cultural team which was in France along with the Investment Mission, scored a major success with Parisiens, as large crowds showed up outside the prestigious Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral, to sing and dance to the pulsating soca/chutney music. Sagicor Exodus steelband, singer Kenny J and the Folk Dancers captivated the audience, which was ably led by a large contingent of Trinbagonians resident in France, known as “Trinis in France�. This group of patriotic citizens decked off in red T-shirts, waved flags, rags and bandannas, sang along with virtually all the calypsos and soca songs and generally showed the French how we enjoy life in Trinidad and Tobago. Old and young, male and female, people of all ethnicities and backgrounds began gathering as soon as the sweet sounds of pan started filtering across the openair venue. The visibly moved gathering gave an
Dancers Natalie Joseph-Settle, Delores Alexander,Oma Ramoutar, Anita Maharaj and Jackie Davis put on a spectacular show all over Europe.
enthusiastic round of applause to the performers at the end of the session, and indeed appeared quite sad that the music had to end. Having played in Dublin, Berlin and Frankfurt, the next stop for the Cultural Team was London, England, where the Investment Mission started off the proceedings with a business seminar on Thursday 21st September, 2006.
More Scenes from the Trade and Culture Mission to Europe Left: Ambassador Jerry Narace and the Honorary Consul of Hamburg, Howard Kroch Right: Minister Valley being interviewed by Debbie Ransome of BBC Caribbean
Left: Calypsonian Kenny J performing at Trafalgar Square. Right: Exodus In Berlin. The band performed in front of the Parliament building in Berlin. This was the first time a musical band was allowed to do so.
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LONDON MISSION
Chandani Persaud crowned Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK The show, which also featured T&T’s award winning Boodasingh Tassa Players and Trinidad and Tobago Young King Soca Monarch Seon Daniel, attracted many celebrities including Brent Sancho, Stern John and other members of the Soca Warriors team and many other high profile personalities, including international beauty queens. The distinguished panel of judges were Wendel Clement, businessman and director of Poison UK; Dr. Natalie Johnson, Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2004; Miss Maya 2005, Roppa Mayor; Cllr. Berta Joan Joseph, Mayor of Brent; Vicky Jones, businesswoman and; Brent Sancho, footballer. The adjudicator was Mr. Ansel Wong of Focus Consultancy. The judges’ coordinator was Dee Cumming.
The new Miss T&T UK - Chandani Persaud
T
he Miss Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Showcase and Pageant 2006 was held at the Hammersmith Palais, London, on the 24th September 2006 under the patronage of Her Excellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
The main sponsors of the Event were the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Board UK, Western Union, Cascadia Hotel -Trinidad, The New Nations Newspaper, Caribbean Times, Capital Life Photography, Pamela Price of Wessex House Night Club and The Inn Collection - Trinidad. The Event was also supported by The Caribbean Development Trust, Bar 38, CI Manniquin, Poison UK, Soca News, Angostura Ltd, B Spoke Media, the Tobago House of Assembly Department of Tourism, Paddington Arts Elimu, Vees Promotion and TTPNUK.
Twenty year old Chandani Persaud, a Trinidad and Tobago national who resides in North London and represented St Augustine, won the pageant. She also bagged the Miss Photogenic title. Ms. Persaud is currently studying Biomedical Sciences at Kings College University London. She has a diploma in Indian classical dancing and is a member of her family dance group the Indo Caribbean dance troupe. After winning the title, the newly crowned Queen was interviewed by BBC Radio 5 Live, her first public engagement. Chandani handled the interview as a true ambassador for her country. Amongst her many prizes is a trip to Trinidad and Tobago. Part of her duties would be to assist the Caribbean Development Trust (CDT), (www.caribbeandevelopmenttrust.com) the affiliate charity of the beauty pageant organisers, Carivog International.
Organiser of the Event, Miss Angela Cox
1st Runner up - Crystal Romero 2nd Runner up - Tovalin Bartholemew Miss elegance - Sahara Fergus Simms Miss Amity - Rachael Nancoo Miss Personality - Eutris Applewhite Miss Website - Nicole Lancaster
LONDON MISSION
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Awards continued from page 5... Because of these remarkable achievements, the Ministry of Tourism has provided for an institutional strengthening initiative to the value of $252,000 to the four (4) main members of the National Culinary Team for their professional development. Funds will be managed by the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association and will only be used to further culinary studies or attend a Trade Show, Culinary showcase or Seminar. Bartender, Raymond Edwards received a bursary to attend the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality Training Institute to pursue an Associate Degree in Hospitality Management. Pastry Chef, Ottley Alexis received a prize voucher to purchase culinary items. HOTEL AWARDS At the Cocktail Reception, the Ministry of Tourism also presented awards to several hoteliers who excelled in the 2006 Customer Satisfaction Survey conducted by Earl Global Alliance Company Limited. The aim of this Satisfaction Survey was to measure the levels of customer service being extended to local accommodation properties in Trinidad and Tobago. The Survey focused on assessing service in the areas of Grounds and Lobby, Room, Staff, Additional Facilities, Restaurant and Dining Area, and Value for Money. The survey was undertaken among three groups, that is, small properties 21 rooms and under; medium size properties 22-74 rooms; and large properties 75 rooms and over. Following on the results of the survey, the Ministry has sought to encourage the improvement of customer service standards in the industry by extending appropriate training assistance to properties. The winners were: SMALL PROPERTIES (21 Rooms & Under) TRINIDAD 1st Gibson’s Accommodation 2nd Jammev Beach Resort – Almond Park Estate Nemoy Guest House 3rd TOBAGO
1st 2nd 3rd
Ade’s Domicil Sunshine Holiday Apartments Scarborough House
MEDIUM PROPERTIES (22 to 74 rooms) TRINIDAD 1st Asa Wright Nature Centre nd 2 Salybia Nature Resort & Spa 3rd Crews’ Inn Hotel & Yachting Centre TOBAGO 1st The Villas at Stone Haven nd Blue Haven Hotel 2 3rd Coral Sea Shells Villas LARGE PROPERTIES (75 rooms and over) TRINIDAD Courtyard by Marriott 1st nd 2 Crowne Plaza Trinidad rd 3 Kapok Hotel TOBAGO 1st Grafton Beach Resort nd 2 Hilton Tobago The overall winner in Customer Satisfaction Excellence for Trinidad was the small Port of Spain guesthouse Gibson’s Accommodation. With regard to Tobago, the overall hotel winner was the luxury resort of the Villas at Stone Haven. Both properties were awarded training at the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute to the value of $3,000.00. Special presentations were made to Bernadette Nathaniel, the General Manager of the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association and her Administrative Assistant Michelle Young. These individuals have worked tirelessly and with tremendous commitment to the development of the hotel sector and they have been pivotal in the successes of the National Culinary Team.
Stern John and Brent Sancho of the Soca Warriors at the Miss T&T UK event in London.
Mr. Rudolph Walker, Outstanding Achievement Award recipient, is greeted at the Republic Day Celebrations by H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip and Mr. Ashton Ford. The other recipients of the Award were Dr. Floella Benjamin and Mr. Ron Ramdin.
Left: Petrotrin Tassa Drummers at the Republic Day Celebrations. Right: New UK Calypso Monarch Brown Sugar, entertains members of the touring Culture Team at the High Commission, as Denise Plummer looks on.
Top band leaders meet in London: Mr. Ainsworth Mohammed, Exodus band leader, and Mr. Pepe Francis. Leader of Ebony UK, enjoying a moment at London Trafalgar Square. Right: First Runner Up In Miss T&T UK, Crystal Romero.
Trinidad and Tobago High Commission 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT Tel: 020 7245 9351 Fax: 020 7823 1065 E-mail: tthc.information@btconnect.com