This year, as Trinidad and Tobago celebrates 50 years of independence, our two countries are also celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations. Canada is proud to have recognized Trinidad and Tobago on the very first day of its independence, August 31, 1962, one of the first countries to do so.

Shortly thereafter, Trinidad and Tobago appointed its first High Commissioner to Canada in the person of Mr Wilfred Andrew Rose, and Canada appointed Mr E. H. Gilmour as Canada's first High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago.

From that time up until today, the many ties and connections which already existed between our two countries prior to 1962 – indeed our two countries have been friends and partners for centuries – have continued to broaden and deepen.

To honour this milestone, the High Commission of Canada decided to adopt a logo which would celebrate our 50 years of diplomatic relations and highlight the dynamic nature of our co-operation, in areas such as trade, education, science and technology, security, governance, culture, environment, sport and health – to name but a few.

But instead of hiring a graphics company, the High Commission launched a competition for Trinbagonians25 years or younger. We were delighted to receive over 60 entries, which truly reflected the artistic and creative talent, as well as the enthusiasm, of the youth of Trinidad and Tobago.

On March 21, 2012, Canada's High Commissioner, Karen L. McDonald, and Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Communications, the Honourable Surujrattan Rambachan, unveiled the winning entry, a beautiful and inspiring logo created by 21-year-old Ryan Figuera of Arima.

The logo has already been used by the High Commission of Canada and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago in a number of ways, including during the May 2012 visit to the twin island republic by Canada's Governor General, the Right Honourable David Johnston.

The High Commission of Canada looks forward to taking part in the Golden Jubilee celebrations to be held in Trinidad and Tobago in the months to come, and of course to the continued close collaboration between our two countries.