Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Nicholas Morris, has called for stronger cooperation across the Americas as the region continues to confront growing security, economic, and climate challenges.
Speaking during a Dialogue between Permanent Observers and Heads of Delegation, as part of the 56th OAS General Assembly in Panama City on Tuesday, Minister Morris highlighted the scale and complexity of the challenges facing the hemisphere and the urgency of a unified response.
“From transnational organised crime and security threats to economic uncertainty, democratic pressures, and the growing impacts of natural disasters, the challenges confronting our hemisphere make it clear that no country can effectively address these issues in isolation.”
Minister Morris also praised the role of Permanent Observers, who are strategic partners of the OAS that follow and participate in the organisation’s activities, attend meetings of its political bodies, and provide cooperation for programmes and projects throughout the hemisphere.
He described them as essential partners in advancing the OAS agenda through funding, training programmes, and technical cooperation.
“Trinidad and Tobago conveys its deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions that Permanent Observers continue to make to the work of this organisation and to the advancement of our region. Through voluntary financial contributions, technical cooperation, professional training, scholarships, capacity-building initiatives, and the sharing of expertise and best practices, Permanent Observers have become indispensable partners in supporting the OAS efforts across its four pillars.”
He concluded by reaffirming Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to strengthening those partnerships and advancing long-term regional stability and prosperity.
“The partnership between Member States and Permanent Observers stands as a practical example of effective multilateralism in action. It demonstrates what can be achieved when countries and partners work together in pursuit of shared goals and common values. Trinidad and Tobago remains firmly committed to strengthening these partnerships and to working with Permanent Observers and fellow Member States to advocate and advance a more secure, resilient, and prosperous hemisphere for present and future generations.”
Minister Morris also pointed to record contributions to the OAS Specific Funds and programmes in 2025 as evidence of growing international support for development, security, and resilience initiatives across the region.