Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries, Ernesto Kesar, Acting Permanent Secretary Ms. Karinsa Tulsie, and Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary Marc Rudder, met with executives from Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Limited on Monday 8th December 2025 at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries International Waterfront Complex, Head Office, Port-of-Spain.
The Touchstone Exploration executive team included Mr. Paul Baay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Limited; Dr. Priya Marajh, Director, Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Limited; and Mr. Xavier Moonan, Exploration Manager, Touchstone Exploration (Trinidad) Limited.
At the meeting, Touchstone updated the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) executives on the company’s ongoing operations and future plans in Trinidad and Tobago.
This meeting allowed for both parties to reaffirm their shared commitment to sustainable development of the country’s onshore resources and processing facilities. Touchstone provided a brief update on its activities across the acreage it operates, acknowledging the progress achieved since first production from the Ortoire Block and reiterating the company’s focus on responsible development, operational efficiency, and long-term investment.
Minister Kesar reiterated the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to maintaining open channels of communication with industry stakeholders and ensuring that the regulatory environment remains supportive of investment, innovation, and competitive performance in the energy sector. Minister Kesar commended Touchstone for its continuing contribution to the development of the sector and encouraged the company to maintain its momentum in advancing exploration and production work.
The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries together with Touchstone Exploration remain committed to continuing to work together to enhance value from the energy sector through continued exploration and production, particularly in the onshore areas of the country.