A visiting Canadian Parliament delegation paid a courtesy call Tuesday on Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar at her office.
Canada's High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, Karen McDonald, accompanied the legislators. The members of the delegation included MPs Russ Hiebert, Mervin C. Tweed, Jim and Maloway; and Senators Donald Plett, Elizabeth Hubley.
The President of the Senate, Timothy Hamel-Smith and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Wade Mark, joined Ministers in the Office of the Prime Minister Colin Partap and Rodger Samuel for the visit.
The delegation is visiting Trinidad and Tobago as part of a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association initiative aimed at strengthening trade, economic, cultural and tourism ties.
Trinidad and Tobago is Canada’s second largest trading partner in CARICOM. Ottawa is in the process of negotiating a new trade deal with CARICOM.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Hiebert said Canada is looking to invest in foreign markets since it is now getting out of the crunch of the global financial crisis. He said, “We are here in part to strengthen those ties in the interest of Canada and develop good relations with the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”
Persad-Bissessar noted the the long history of good relations with Canada and gave the assurance that Canadian investors will enjoy free trade consistent with the laws of Trinidad and Tobago.
She also asked the delegation to convey to the Government of Canada, Trinidad and Tobago’s appreciation for the good work of High commissioner McDonald.
“Her Excellency has had very good relations with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. She ensures that our countries continue to enjoy our longstanding good relations. Please convey our tribute to your Lady Ambassador to your Government,” Persad-Bissesssar said.
The visitors have extended their four-day stay to enjoy the country's "beauty and rich culture". It's their first visit here and they are already saying they plan to return.
“We are going back to spread the good news of the beautiful country we’ve seen whose people are generous and very warm,” said Hiebert.
Mark noted that the delegation has toured Parliament and that they were particularly interested in this country’s coalition Government model, which they believe is unique in the world, having been formed before a General Election.
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