PM Kamla to visit China to mark 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations

File: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar greets Chinese President Xi Jingping at the Diplomatic Centre

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissesssar will make a state visit to China this year as the two countries mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. 

China's Ambassador to Port of Spain Huang Xingyuan told reporters Thursday he expects the visit to happen during the Carnival Season and the Chinese Spring Festival. It would be the first state visit by a T&T PM in 40 years. 

China’s President Xi Jingping extended the invitation to Persad-Bissessar when he visited Trinidad last year. "I believe this visit will further enhance the bilateral ties between the two countries," Huang said.

A highlight of Persad-Bissessar’s visit would be the opening of the first Trinidad and Tobago embassy in Beijing.

Huang said the two countries are discussing ways to enhance bilateral relations with measures such as visa waivers under certain conditions and an air and transportation agreement between the two countries. He said agreements in these areas are likely to be finalised during the visit. 

He added that China and TT will make joint efforts to enhance their communication and cooperation in fields such as infrastructure and energy and also explore opportunities in agriculture, green energy, culture and tourism.

The diplomat said there are several celebratory activities planned to mark the anniversary. These include performances by the Chinese Disabled Art Troupe, which will perform at the National Academy for the Performing Arts on February 12 and 13.