CaribWorldNews, PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, Fri. Nov. 27, 2009: Queen Elizabeth, II used her visit to Trinidad and Tobago for the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Port of Spain to heap praise of the twin-island republic.

On the island with Prince Philip after more than twenty years, the Queen, fresh from a visit to Bermuda, lauded the ruling government`s leadership on regional security, `particularly its pioneering efforts to encourage the sharing of good ideas and techniques in counter narcotics co-operation throughout the Caribbean.`

She also praised the government for placing emphasis on quality education and opportunities for further development and lauded the country for its cultural achievements through many authors, painters and photographers, calypso music, sports and the steel pan.

`My Government remains ready to assist in the security sector and in the reforms of judicial processes,` the Queen pledged and  `renewing our happy association with your country which in so many fields is a valued friend and partner of the United Kingdom.`

`In the years since our last visit to Trinidad and Tobago, your country has witnessed much change; but the enduring attribute that was so evident on our last visit and again today is the great warmth and friendliness of the people,` she added. `We are truly delighted to be here once more, and I have much pleasure in asking you all to rise and drink a toast to: the President and people of Trinidad and Tobago.`

The Queen wraps up her visit to the island tomorrow. She was recently in Bermuda on Tuesday as that island celebrated its 400th anniversary of settlement.

She will be at the opening of the CHOGM today. In the evening The Queen, accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh will attend the CHOGM Dinner, where Her Majesty and The Secretary-General of CHOGM will make a speech.

Tomorrow, the Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh will visit Queen`s Hall in Port of Spain where they will view a calypso performance.  In the afternoon Her Majesty and His Royal Highness will attend a drinks reception with local dignitaries.

The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh will then visit the High Commission where they will meet guests and sign a visitor`s book.

In the evening there will be a departure ceremony at Port of Spain airport before Her Majesty and His Royal Highness depart for the UK.