The United States of America has pledged US$6 million over the next two years to support Trinidad and Tobago’s health system, focusing on preventing, detecting, and containing public health threats that affect both nations.
The funding was announced earlier this month during a meeting between U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Charlie J. Franta III, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Caribbean Office Country Director Dr. Paul Young, and Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe.
The financial commitment will be used by Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Health to support a range of U.S. health priorities, including HIV prevention, lifesaving care and treatment, disease surveillance, laboratory improvements, and workforce training.
The assistance comes as part of the America First Global Health Strategy and coincides with a planned two-year drawdown period for HIV/AIDS funding under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
“The United States remains committed to working with Trinidad and Tobago to improve the public health and well-being of the people of the United States and Trinidad and Tobago,” Chargé d’Affaires Franta said. “We look forward to our continued partnership with the Ministry of Health as we endeavor to improve the quality of life of the people of our great nations.”