Half a century of friendship, cultural exchange, and economic collaboration takes center stage as Trinidad & Tobago and China mark their 50th diplomatic anniversary. From pioneering Caribbean-China ties to modern Belt & Road projects, here’s why this partnership matters .
From Early Ties to Diplomatic Milestones
In 1974, Trinidad & Tobago became one of the first Caribbean nations to formally recognize the People’s Republic of China. The historic move followed its 1971 UN vote supporting China’s rightful seat—a decision Ambassador Analisa Low calls a ‘forward-looking cornerstone’ of the nation’s independent foreign policy.
Trailblazers Who Bridged Two Worlds
Did you know a Trinidad-born diplomat once served as China’s Foreign Minister? Eugene Chen (1878–1970), son of a Cantonese family in Trinidad, helped shape modern Chinese diplomacy. Meanwhile, dance icon Dai Ailian—born in Trinidad in 1916—co-founded the National Ballet of China . Their legacies highlight deep-rooted people-to-people bonds.
Belt & Road Sparks Caribbean Growth
Since joining China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2018, Trinidad & Tobago has seen transformative projects like the Phoenix Park Industrial Estate—a ‘flagship of South-South cooperation’ boosting non-energy sectors. High-level visits, including Chinese President Xi Jinping’s 2013 tour, continue to fuel economic and cultural synergy.
As both nations toast 50 years, Ambassador Low emphasizes: ‘Our friendship isn’t just history—it’s a living, evolving blueprint for global partnerships.’
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Trinidad and Tobago-China ties in new era of comprehensive partnership
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