On March 26, PM Stuart Young of Trinidad and Tobago and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met to strengthen ties on energy and security. They addressed the designation of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a terrorist group and discussed current tariffs on Venezuelan oil. Ongoing energy initiatives and cross-border projects were key topics, reflecting the nations’ commitment to mutual cooperation and security.
On March 26, Prime Minister Stuart Young of Trinidad and Tobago and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio convened in Jamaica to discuss strengthening bilateral relations in areas such as energy, national security, and broader mutual interests. The meeting, lasting one hour, culminated in a statement from the US State Department which emphasized ongoing cooperation between the two nations.
During their discussions, Rubio expressed gratitude for Trinidad and Tobago’s support in enhancing energy security, forging a robust security partnership, and improving the process for deporting illegal aliens. The talk also centered on the designation of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization, urging regional allies to follow suit.
Rubio called upon Young to collaborate with the United States and fellow Caribbean democracies to mitigate undesirable influences within the region. This dialogue echoes a broader commitment to secure energy in the Caribbean, as reiterated by US Special Envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone, acknowledging Trinidad and Tobago’s position as a key energy leader amid challenges.
The discussions also tackled pressing issues including the ongoing efforts to advance joint energy initiatives and address the threat posed by Venezuela. Following the meeting, Prime Minister Young is expected to share details about the outcomes during a post-Cabinet news conference on March 27, stressing the significance of cross-border energy deals.
Further complications arose as President Trump announced an impending tariff on Venezuelan oil and gas transactions. This measure aims to impose a 25 percent tariff on any nation engaging in such trade with Venezuela, effective April 2, yet aims to boost national security in light of criminal activities tied to Venezuelan gangs.
The potential for the Dragon gas project continues to be a point of contention, with its fate uncertain following recent US governmental adjustments affecting operational licenses granted under the previous administration. Continuous engagements are planned to reaffirm Trinidad and Tobago’s interests in vital energy projects within a historical context of collaboration between the nations.
In summary, the dialogue between Prime Minister Stuart Young and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reinforces the importance of deepening Trinidad and Tobago’s collaboration with the United States on energy and national security. The designation of the Tren de Aragua gang as a terrorist entity and the impending tariffs on Venezuelan oil highlight ongoing security concerns, while efforts to revitalize energy partnerships remain critical for both nations’ futures. The discussions illustrate a commitment to addressing shared challenges and enhancing bilateral ties.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
