Prime Minister Stuart Young and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met to enhance Trinidad and Tobago-U.S. cooperation in energy and security. They discussed the designation of the Tren de Aragua gang as a terrorist organization and strategies to combat Venezuelan influence. Trump’s administration proposed new tariffs on Venezuelan oil exports, signalling impactful shifts in foreign policy that may influence regional energy projects. Young’s leadership follows his predecessor’s focus on strengthening U.S.-Trinidad relations.
On March 26, in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Stuart Young and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions to strengthen collaborations in energy, national security, and other mutual interests. The U.S. State Department confirmed these discussions in a statement, underscoring the significance of Trinidad and Tobago’s role in promoting regional energy security and enhancing security partnerships.
During their one-hour meeting, Rubio expressed appreciation for Trinidad and Tobago’s cooperation in energy security and encouraged participation against the influence of Venezuelan criminal organizations, specifically the Tren de Aragua gang, which the U.S. has designated as a foreign terrorist organization. This sentiment was reiterated later by the U.S. Embassy’s communication.
U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America Mauricio Claver-Carone emphasized Trinidad and Tobago’s vital role in the Caribbean energy landscape and indicated a commitment to support the country in overcoming challenges related to Venezuelan influence while developing its natural gas opportunities. Claver-Carone described this as a pivotal moment for Caribbean energy security.
The discussions were productive, and a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister noted a collaborative approach towards various significant issues including trade and national security. Young returned to Trinidad on March 26 and planned further communication regarding the outcomes of these discussions in an upcoming news conference.
Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the implementation of a secondary tariff on Venezuela for dealing with criminal elements, impacting nations purchasing oil and gas from Venezuela. This tariff, set to activate on April 2, reflects broader efforts to hinder Venezuelan oil exports.
Efforts to facilitate cross-border energy agreements with Venezuela, including the Dragon gas deal, continue being a focus for Young. He reinforced ongoing commitment to address issues related to energy projects during a recent press briefing. The potential risks associated with U.S. policies following presidential transitions could affect projects critical for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy strategy.
Lastly, previous cooperation on energy projects, such as the Dragon deal involving Chevron, could be jeopardized as U.S. foreign policy shifts under the new administration. Young’s predecessor, Dr. Keith Rowley, had previously underscored the strong relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States, emphasizing the importance of joint engagement in energy security.
Young succeeded Rowley as Prime Minister on March 17, 2023, indicating a continuity of leadership in pursuing these pivotal energy initiatives.
In summary, the recent discussions between Prime Minister Stuart Young and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the mutual interest in energy security and combating the influence of Venezuelan gangs. Continued cooperation is essential for Trinidad and Tobago as it seeks to revitalize its energy sector and address external threats. The implementation of new tariffs on Venezuelan oil underscores the complexities of these diplomatic relations, while ongoing commitments to energy projects like the Dragon deal indicate a path forward despite potential challenges.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
