New York:The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago have officially established diplomatic relations at the United Nations headquarters.
According to Lao News Agency, this significant development took place on September 29, 2026, marking a milestone for the two nations. The Joint Communiqu© was signed by Mr. Thongphane Savanhphet, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of the Lao PDR to the UN, and Dr. Neil Parsan, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of Trinidad and Tobago to the UN. Diplomats from both missions were present at the ceremony.
This agreement increases the total number of countries with which the Lao PDR maintains formal diplomatic relations to 155, reflecting Laos’ foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship, and cooperation. Both countries have expressed a strong commitment to deepening their bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation, especially within multilateral platforms like the United Nations.
Trinidad and Tobago, which gained independence from the United Kingdom on August 31, 1962, and joined the United Nations on September 18, 1962, is a presidential republic with its capital in Port of Spain. The nation is located in the Caribbean, near Venezuela, and covers an area of 5,131 square kilometers with a population of approximately 1.51 million. English is the official language.
Economically, Trinidad and Tobago is notable for its per capita income of approximately 19,621 USD as of 2025. It is a significant energy producer, ranking 42nd globally and leading the Caribbean in natural gas production in 2023. The nation also exports food, beverages, and industrial cement.
Trinidad and Tobago plays an influential role in international diplomacy. Mr. Dennis Francis served as President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly in 2023, and the country has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2027-2028 term. As a member of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), it advocates for climate action, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.
