03/06/2026
ARIMA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – The Greater Arima Chamber of Commerce (GACC) today extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, under the leadership of Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar S.C., on the nation’s historic election to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for the 2027–2028 term.
Earlier today, Trinidad and Tobago secured 181 votes out of 190 cast — a remarkable 95 percent — in a single round of voting at the UN General Assembly, far surpassing the required two-thirds majority. This achievement is a testament to the vision and steadfast leadership of Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, whose campaign — launched at the UNGA in September 2025 and anchored by the theme “Building Consensus for the Realization of Sustainable Peace and Security” — earned the support of the vast majority of the international community. The new term begins January 1, 2027 and marks Trinidad and Tobago’s third stint on the Council.
The GACC regards this moment as deeply significant for East Trinidad. Our communities continue to bear the burden of transnational criminal activity — illegal arms trafficking, narco-trafficking, and gang violence fuelled by networks that reach far beyond our borders. A seat on the Security Council, the most powerful body in the United Nations system, gives Trinidad and Tobago an unparalleled platform to champion binding international frameworks to disrupt these networks, secure technical support for our law enforcement institutions, and build the multilateral alliances that lasting regional security demands. The Chamber calls on the Government to make the fight against transnational crime a central pillar of its UNSC agenda.
“This is a proud moment for every citizen of Trinidad and Tobago. The business community of Arima stands firmly behind this Government as it carries our nation’s voice into one of the most powerful chambers in international diplomacy. We call on our Government to use every tool this historic seat affords to bring the international cooperation needed to end the transnational crime that threatens our communities and our livelihoods.”
— Jonathan Bhagan, President | Imran Ali, Vice-President — Greater Arima Chamber of Commerce
