Ministry of Planning and Development

Minister of Planning and Development, the Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis hands a token to His Excellency Mr. David Newman, High Commissioner designate for the Republic of Botswana.

Diversification, education, renewable energy, financial services and cross functionality of Governmental operations were the key areas of discussion for technical collaboration and support between the Minister of Planning and Development the Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis and the High Commissioner designate for the Republic of Botswana, Mr. David Newman.  Mr. Newman is due to present his credentials to His Excellency Anthony Carmona soon.  Minister Robinson-Regis shared the view that Trinidad and Tobago possesses the capacity in all of the areas mentioned to be a strong partner and is willing to work with the Ambassador to create a solid partnership.  There is a shortage of surface water in Botswana and exploration activities have discovered water in the aquifer deep underground, this opens up opportunities for drilling companies with experience in the energy sector from Trinidad and Tobago.  Ambassador Newman also made note of Trinidad and Tobago’s strong tertiary institutions and is looking for opportunities for sharing in this field.  The Government of Botswana is exploring diversification away from mining and its dependence on fossil fuels, namely coal, and seeks to work further with Trinidad and Tobago in this regard.  There are also opportunities to work together to identify means of developing sources renewable energy.

Diplomatic relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Botswana were established in 1998 and have remained cordial with cooperation over the years remaining primarily in multilateral fora such as the UN.  Possibilities for trade and developmental partnerships do exist and Minister Robinson-Regis is keen on exploring these opportunities.