In a significant diplomatic engagement, Trinidad and Tobago hosted a high-ranking United Arab Emirates delegation on January 24th to advance foreign investment opportunities and international economic cooperation. The visiting contingent was led by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, who participated in extensive discussions with Trinidadian officials including Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John and Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein.
The meetings represented a continuation of Trinidad and Tobago’s global economic development initiative, building upon recent ministerial outreach to Middle Eastern nations. Minister John presented the government’s comprehensive Revitalisation Blueprint—an ambitious infrastructure program encompassing 129 multi-sector projects designed to drive economic diversification, enhance national resilience, and generate sustainable employment opportunities.
John emphasized Trinidad and Tobago’s openness for business, highlighting the nation’s strategic geographical positioning, competitive advantages, and ongoing regulatory improvements designed to facilitate foreign investment. The minister articulated how these factors collectively position the country as an attractive destination for international capital.
Minister Al Kaabi responded positively to the proposals, expressing strong interest in deepening bilateral relations between the UAE and Trinidad and Tobago. She acknowledged the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships and future investment opportunities through enhanced cooperation.
The delegation conducted firsthand inspections of several major national development sites, including the Invader’s Bay Development Project in Port of Spain, the Port of Point Lisas, and the Couva Children’s Hospital. These site visits provided UAE representatives with direct insight into areas identified as having substantial development and investment potential.
Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Sean Sobers contextualized the visit within Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s vision for Trinidad and Tobago to establish new global relationships that advance both foreign policy and economic interests. Sobers noted that UAE and other Gulf nations had initiated contact following the Prime Minister’s “clarion call” around mid-2025.
The engagement built upon previous discussions held in the Middle East on November 24, 2025, where ministerial delegations explored areas of bilateral importance including potential establishment of a diplomatic mission in the UAE and investment opportunities aligned with Trinidad and Tobago’s Revitalisation Blueprint Initiative.
The visit concluded with the delegation experiencing local culture through sampling doubles, a popular Trinidadian street food, symbolizing the cultural exchange accompanying economic diplomacy.