LAUNCH OF THE GRENADA CONSULAR TOURISM AND TRADE OFFICE

St. George's, June 29, 2009 -- Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon.  Peter David says Grenada is optimistic about plans by Trinidad and Tobago for the setting up of an Aircraft Maintenance facility in Grenada.

Plans to that effect have been announced by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Patrick Manning. Minister David was speaking at the launch of the Grenada Consular Tourism and Trade Office in Trinidad.

He praised the Government of Trinidad for their consistent show of support towards Grenada, highlighting Trinidad’s interest in the well being of Grenada particularly after the passage of hurricane Ivan.

Minister David described the move by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in making the Office commonly called the “Grenada House” a reality, as a practical approach to facing modern day challenges.

 “This move highlights   the strengthening of an unbreakable and unshakable bond between the two countries,” he said.

The Foreign Affairs Minister reaffirmed that the Government of Grenada holds integration values in deep regard, and feels passionate about forging ahead with deeper regional integration.

The Minister expressed confidence in the Grenada Consular Tourism and Trade Office, in meeting the needs of the people of both countries, reaffirming that the office will boast trade and enhance relations among both peoples.

Meantime speaking at Thursday’s launch, Foreign Affairs Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Paula -Goopee -Scoon says the integration of Grenada and Trinidad has been on that  country’s  agenda for many years.

Scoon says the opening of the office will in no uncertain terms entice, and encourage greater collaboration with Trinidadians and her government is confident that it will serve to strengthen the bond of friendship which exist between the two countries.  Goopee-Scoon also predicted significant, economic benefit, for both countries.

The Trinidad Foreign Affairs Minister highlighted a number of existing programmes between Trinidad   and Grenada, including ongoing negotiation with delimitation talks, and the current arrangement under the Petroleum Fund.

 Scoon described the opening of the office as a step in the right direction and called on both partners to make the operation a total success.

The foreign affairs minister in reaffirming the governments commitment to the initiative, says pending economic and political union can only serve to strengthen capacity in these global economic times.