The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has officially extended recognition to the State of Palestine, becoming the third Caribbean nation, after Barbados and Jamaica, to do so.
The announcement was made by the Cabinet on Friday, as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs.
As stated in a press release, “recognition of Palestine is moral and just and demonstrates Trinidad and Tobago’s acknowledgement of and support for the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.”
It continued, “In the seven months since the start of the war in Gaza, Senator, the Honourable Dr Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, has articulated the position of Trinidad and Tobago on this issue; condemned the killing of civilians in Gaza and Israel; expressed support for the two-state solution; and called for an immediate ceasefire, the exercise of restraint, regard for civilian lives and welfare, dialogue, and diplomacy.”
Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority, expressed gratitude for Trinidad and Tobago’s decision, stating that it upholds the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and advances the two-state solution. He urged other countries to follow suit in recognising Palestine’s sovereignty.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry welcomed Trinidad and Tobago’s move, affirming its compliance with international law and its potential to contribute to ending the Israeli occupation.
President Abbas highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s consistent support for Palestinian rights and its alignment with international legal principles promoting freedom, justice, and independence for oppressed peoples.