His Excellency Wade Mark, Acting President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, has issued a statement celebrating World Steelpan Day, describing the steelpan as one of the country’s most treasured gifts to the world and a powerful expression of national identity.

“On the occasion of World Steelpan Day, I join the national community in celebrating the steelpan, our national musical instrument and one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most treasured gifts to the world,” Mark said in the statement, issued Tuesday, August 11.

The Acting President described the steelpan as far more than a musical innovation, noting that it was born out of the creativity, resilience and determination of the country’s people. From the panyards of Trinidad and Tobago, he said, its distinctive sound has travelled across continents, carrying the nation’s name with pride.