TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO SOLICITS FTAA SECRETARIAT

UNCLAS OTTAWA 001663 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR WHA/CAR - GILROY, AND WHA/CAN E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETRD TD CA FTAA SUBJECT: TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO SOLICITS FTAA SECRETARIAT The High Commission of Trinidad and Tobago in Ottawa has sent us a diplomatic note announcing its government's interest in hosting the FTAA secretariat and reqeusting USG support. Please advise if and how we should respond to the High Commission. Begin text: High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago NOTE NO: 52/03 The High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago presents its compliments to the Embassy of the United States of America and has the honour to inform the latter that the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has announced its interest in hosting the Permanent Headquarters of the Secretariat of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). Situated midway between North and South America, Trinidad and Tobago's strategic position at the convergence of the Caribbean, South and Central America, makes the country an ideal location for the FTAA Secretariat. Trinidad and Tobago also boasts a socially and culturally diverse society complemented by a stable democracy, a safe and secure environment, modern infrastructure and a dynamic business climate. Trinidad and Tobago maintains one of the highest standards of living in the region. The low cost of utilities, transportation, food and leisure combine to make executive living standards highly competitive when compared with other major metropolitan centers within the hemisphere. The Trinidad and Tobago bid has been endorsed by all member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago wishes to request the valuable support of the Government of the United States of America in its bid to host the Permanent Headquarters of the Secretariat of the FTAA. The High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago avails itself of thsi opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the United States of America the assurances of its highest consideration. OTTAWA 2 June 2003 End text. CELLUCCI