Security cooperation between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States took centre stage as Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her delegation met with officials from United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) on Monday.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Ministers in the Office of the Prime Minister Barry Padarath and Nicholas Morris, along with other members of her team.
The high-level meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the two countries on national and regional security, with particular emphasis on combating narcotics trafficking.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar noted that the talks were held at the invitation of the United States Government.
During the discussions, she emphasised the need for deeper partnerships to confront criminal activity and protect citizens.
The Prime Minister also called for expanded technical cooperation with the United States in key areas such as cybersecurity, forensics and ballistics, aimed at strengthening Trinidad and Tobago’s capacity to tackle organised crime.
Officials from SOUTHCOM reportedly acknowledged Trinidad and Tobago’s leadership role in regional security efforts and expressed support for expanding joint initiatives.
The meeting also identified several potential projects to further enhance security cooperation between the two countries.
Before the conclusion of the discussions, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar extended an invitation to the Commander of United States Southern Command, Francis L. Donovan, to visit Trinidad and Tobago. The visit could take place before the end of the year.
The engagement forms part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to strengthen security partnerships and intensify the fight against transnational crime in the region.