I congratulate the Prime Minister and the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago on the launch of the new Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean.

I also congratulate the Institute of International Relations of the University of the West Indies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago on this joint initiative.

Today’s opening demonstrates Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to advancing 21st-century diplomacy. The Academy will provide hands-on training for the diplomats of tomorrow from CARICOM and beyond. It will enhance the understanding and practice of contemporary diplomacy with a distinctive Caribbean perspective.

The presence of foreign ministers from across the Caribbean and representatives from partner institutions in South Korea, Brazil, China and India demonstrates your shared desire to elevate the art of diplomacy and enable tomorrow’s diplomats to be ever more effective within regional and global multilateral institutions.

At this time of global challenge and transition, I wish the Diplomatic Academy every success in helping to advance the universal values of the United Nations and to build a world of security, opportunity and dignity for all. 

Thank you.