At the heart of Trinidad and Tobago's relationship with China lies a deep-rooted cultural connection dating back over two centuries. As the first country in the Latin American and Caribbean region to welcome Chinese immigrants 218 years ago, Trinidad and Tobago has fostered a formidable partnership with China that continues to evolve through shared interests and cultural ties.
For many in the community, being of Chinese ancestry and Trinidadian identity serves as a bridge between the two nations, holding deep personal significance. Ambassador Analisa Low, whose paternal grandparents originated from Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, embodies this connection. Her grandmother bravely journeyed alone from Hong Kong to Trinidad at the age of 20, carrying with her the values and traditions of Chinese culture to a land over 16,000 kilometers away.
These values—commitment to family, community service, and honoring the sacrifices of elders—have been integral in shaping both personal lives and national development. In China, these same principles drive modernization and the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity.
The contributions of Chinese immigrants and their descendants have been pivotal in Trinidad and Tobago's evolution into a vibrant, multi-ethnic society. Prominent in politics, medicine, business, science, and the arts, the Chinese community has exerted an influence far beyond its numbers. Notably, Carlisle Chang, a Trinidadian of Chinese descent, designed the nation's Coat of Arms and national flag upon independence in 1962, playing a key role in developing the country's cultural identity.
The longstanding cultural exchanges between Trinidad and Tobago and China have enriched both nations. The shared heritage and ongoing collaboration continue to strengthen their partnership, highlighting the importance of cultural connections in fostering international relationships.
Reference(s):
Trinidad and Tobago's 218 years of deepening partnership with China
cgtn.com
