British High Commissioner Jon Dean has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Trinidad and Tobago (TT) in its national development goals, as outlined in Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s Revitalisation Blueprint. Speaking at the King’s birthday celebration held at his residence in Port of Spain on November 12, Dean emphasized the UK’s role as a key trade partner and its readiness to assist TT in achieving its ambitious revitalization agenda. The event was attended by prominent figures, including government ministers, law enforcement officials, and members of the judiciary. Dean highlighted the £5 billion financing agreement between UK Export Finance and TT, which aims to bolster infrastructure, healthcare, and national security projects. He also noted the significant growth in bilateral trade, which reached £1.3 billion between July 2024 and June 2025, marking a 105% increase from the previous year. Despite the introduction of visa requirements for TT citizens visiting the UK, Dean stressed that this decision was not indicative of strained relations but rather a measure to address rising asylum claims. He underscored the importance of continued collaboration in areas such as climate action, sustainable growth, and combating organized crime, emphasizing the interconnectedness of security and prosperity between the two nations.
