Senator the Honourable Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, welcomed His Excellency Ren Hongyan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Trinidad and Tobago, during a courtesy call aimed at strengthening the longstanding ties between both nations.
The discussions highlighted the depth of the bilateral relationship, which over the past five decades has been built on mutual respect, shared interests, and enduring friendship. Minister Swaratsingh and Ambassador Ren reflected on the remarkable growth in trade and investment between Trinidad and Tobago and China, with bilateral trade reaching approximately US$1.34 billion in 2023. Trinidad and Tobago’s energy exports, including liquefied natural gas and methanol, continue to play an important role, while Chinese manufactured goods, vehicles, and electronics contribute to local economic activity. They also underscored China’s contribution to national development through landmark projects such as the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), the Phoenix Park Industrial Estate, and the A.N.R. Robinson International Airport expansion.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue and collaboration within multilateral forums, including the 9th Round of China–Caribbean Consultations held in August 2025. The Honourable Minister expressed appreciation for China’s engagement with the Caribbean region and reiterated Trinidad and Tobago’s steadfast adherence to the One China policy. The courtesy call also emphasized the value of cultural and educational exchanges, including scholarships for Trinbagonian students and the celebration of Chinese heritage within Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse society. The contribution of the Chinese community, whose roots date back to 1806, was warmly acknowledged as an integral part of the nation’s history and identity.
Looking to the future, Minister Swaratsingh and Ambassador Ren agreed on the importance of expanding cooperation in economic diversification, partnerships for growth of T&T’s creative industry as well as renewable energy through the acquisition of electric vehicles. They also noted the significance of recent milestones, including the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in June 2024, and Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in September 2025. The meeting reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Trinidad and Tobago and China, and the shared vision of advancing development through mutual respect, cooperation, and friendship.