The Joint Communiqué was signed by Mr. Thongphane Savanhphet, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of the Lao PDR to the UN, and Dr. Neil Parsan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of Trinidad and Tobago to the UN, in the presence of diplomats from both missions.

This historic agreement brings the total number of countries with which the Lao PDR maintains formal diplomatic relations to 155 worldwide, reinforcing Laos’ consistent foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation.

During the signing ceremony, both representatives reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation across various fields, particularly through mutual support within multilateral platforms like the United Nations.

Gained independence from the United Kingdom on August 31, 1962, and joined the United Nations shortly after on September 18, 1962. It operates as a presidential republic with Port of Spain as its capital.

Situated in the Caribbean along the Atlantic coast near Venezuela, the nation covers 5,131 square kilometers with a population of approximately 1.51 million. English is the official language.

Backed by a per capita income of approximately 19,621 USD (2025), Trinidad and Tobago is an economic powerhouse in the region. It is a major energy producer, ranking 42nd globally and leading the Caribbean in natural gas production in 2023, alongside significant exports of food, beverages, and industrial cement.

Trinidad and Tobago has a strong diplomatic voice. Notably, Mr. Dennis Francis served as President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly in 2023, and the country has recently been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term. As a Small Island Developing States (SIDS) member, it is also a vocal champion for climate action, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.

KPL