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The bilateral relations between the Republic of India and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago have considerably expanded in recent years with both nations building strategic and commercial ties. Both nations formally established diplomatic relations in 1962.[1] Indo-Trinidadian and Tobagonians form the largest ethnic group in the country at 37.6% of the total population.[2]
Both nations were colonised by the British Empire; India supported independence of Trinidad and Tobago from colonial rule and established its diplomatic mission in 1962 - the year that Trinidad and Tobago officially gained independence from British rule. Trinidad and Tobago's largest ethnic group is citizens of Indian descent. The nations possess diverse natural and economic resources and are the largest economies in their respective regions. Both are members of the United Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, G-77 and the Non-Aligned Movement.
The relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago started on 30 May 1845, when the Fatel Razack brought 225 indentured labourers to Trinidad from India. Today, 37% of Trinidad and Tobago's population are of pure Indian descent. That number is slightly higher when including multiracial individuals, mostly Dougla people.[3]
In 2010, Indian nationals can now travel to Trinidad and Tobago without a visa and can visit up to 90 days.[4] There has also been initiatives by the Government of India to provide Trinidadians and Tobagonians of Indian descent with Overseas Citizenship of India.
| Date | Agreement name | Law ref. number | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Cooperation in Science and Technology | |||
| 1987 | Cultural Cooperation Agreement | |||
| 1999 | Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement | |||
| February 2003 | Political, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation | |||
| 2007 | Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) |