Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley denied claims that Trinidad and Tobago signed an agreement permitting U.S. military presence in the country for possible conflict in Venezuela. He criticized the article for spreading misinformation and reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to neutrality and peace in the region. The Prime Minister’s remarks highlighted the significance of accurate media reporting on international relations.
Port of Spain, Trinidad, CMC – Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has refuted claims made by a newspaper article suggesting that Trinidad and Tobago has entered into an agreement with the United States permitting military deployments in the event of a conflict in Venezuela. During a recent news conference, Dr. Rowley expressed his concerns regarding the article’s potential implications, emphasizing that the allegations lack factual basis and thorough investigation. He stated, “This is a serious matter. If a country is making its territory available for another country to stage military action against that country, that is a serious matter.”
The Prime Minister underscored the importance of maintaining Trinidad and Tobago’s position as a neutral actor in international relations, particularly regarding the internal matters of neighboring nations. He emphasized, “We do not countenance a breach of the peace in the region and we will not facilitate any such thing. Our actions speak louder than our words on this matter.”
The original article by Newsday had reported that the National Security Minister, Fitzgerald Hinds, signed five agreements with the United States which would enable military support under certain conditions. However, Dr. Rowley clarified that discussions with U.S. officials focused on a range of collaboration aspects, including security and human rights, rather than military aggression.
Further complicating the narrative, earlier discussions at the Caribbean Nations Security Conference held in Trinidad included various Caribbean defense leaders and representatives from the U.S. Navy, showcasing Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to regional peace and stability. Dr. Rowley expressed concern over the misrepresentation of the country’s motives, stating that such articles could jeopardize Trinidad and Tobago’s diplomatic relations and regional reputation.
In conclusion, Dr. Rowley reaffirmed the importance of accurate media reporting, particularly when issues have significant implications for national security and international relationships. He reminded that misinformation can cause undue concern not only within Trinidad and Tobago but also across CARICOM nations.
The controversy surrounding the alleged military agreements between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States arises amidst regional tensions, particularly concerning the political climate in Venezuela. Trinidad and Tobago, as a key player in the Caribbean, holds a strategic position geographically and diplomatically. The relationships it nurtures with major powers like the United States, as well as Caribbean neighbors, are crucial for maintaining security, humanitarian assistance, and collaborative efforts against transnational challenges. Prime Minister Rowley’s comments reflect an insistence on non-intervention and a commitment to peace, crucial in a region sensitive to foreign military presence.
In summary, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has firmly rejected the notion that Trinidad and Tobago is facilitating military incursions by the United States into Venezuela. He emphasized the importance of clarity and truthfulness in media reporting, particularly regarding issues related to national security and international relations. The Prime Minister reassured the public of Trinidad and Tobago’s enduring commitment to regional peace and the integrity of its foreign relations, stating unequivocally that the country does not support or engage in military interventions.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
