Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar urged citizens to embrace unity, resilience, and shared responsibility as Trinidad and Tobago marked its 63rd anniversary of Independence on Sunday.
In her national address, Persad-Bissessar paid tribute to the nation’s founding leaders, describing independence as both “a living promise” and a continuing mission. She emphasized that while the country has achieved much in six decades, the journey toward equality, opportunity, and innovation remains unfinished.
“Independence is not just a historic moment. It is a living promise, a promise of freedom, equality, opportunity, and progress,” the prime minister said. “We must continue the work of empowering our citizens, creating safer communities, inspiring healthier lifestyles, and opening the doors of opportunity through education and investment.”
The prime minister underscored the importance of instilling values of compassion, service, and self-belief in the nation’s youth, stressing that true independence lies in securing a brighter future for every child. She pledged her government’s commitment to tackling pressing issues, including job creation, family support, and protection for the vulnerable.
At the same time, Persad-Bissessar reminded citizens that building a stronger nation requires collective effort. “Government alone cannot do it,” she said. “Whether as teachers, doctors, farmers, entrepreneurs, parents, or students, your contributions are the heartbeat of our nation.”
Calling for courage, unity, and faith amid challenges, she thanked citizens for their resilience and love of country. “As we raise our flags high today, let us remember that the red, white, and black are more than colours — they are a reflection of our strength, our unity, and our unshakable spirit as one people,” she said.
The prime minister closed her message with optimism for the nation’s future: “Let us walk boldly into the future, knowing that the best of Trinidad and Tobago is still to come.”
