Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar unveiled a dramatic overhaul of Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign policy yesterday, signaling the nation’s intention to pursue partnerships beyond its traditional regional allies.
Speaking to reporters, the Prime Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), stating her government no longer views the organization as dependable.
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“I do not consider Caricom a reliable partner, and over the next couple years there will be a significant realignment of our foreign policy,” Persad-Bissessar declared. “These changes are necessary for improving our economic and physical security.”
The announcement comes amid growing tensions within the regional bloc over Trinidad and Tobago’s support for U.S. military operations targeting drug cartels in Caribbean waters. While other Caricom nations have called for the region to remain a zone of peace and criticized the deployment of American military assets, Port of Spain has broken ranks to back Washington’s efforts.
Looking Beyond the Region
The Prime Minister outlined plans to establish new alliances globally, moving away from the country’s traditional focus on regional integration.
“We will mainly focus on increasing linkages and cooperation with countries outside the region,” she explained. “We need to look for new partners in trade, investment and security.”
Despite the policy shift, Persad-Bissessar emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago would maintain cordial relations with its Caribbean neighbors. She stressed that her primary responsibility remains the welfare of her own citizens.
“The lives and livelihoods of Trinidad and Tobago citizens are my top priority,” she said. “I maintain cordial relations with all my Caricom colleagues.”
The Prime Minister also expressed solidarity with Jamaica during its current challenges, noting that her government continues arranging relief supplies for the island nation.
Trinidad and Tobago has stood by the United States’ campaign against drug cartels, which has seen the deployment of nearly a dozen warships, fighter jets, supersonic bombers, and a submarine to Caribbean waters—a show of force that has alarmed other regional governments.
