Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC has defended Trinidad and Tobago’s position on a recent United Nations vote concerning Cuba, insisting that the country must remain consistent in its support for democracy and human rights.
Speaking at the second annual Divali with the Diplomats function on Thursday evening, the Prime Minister reaffirmed her support for the Government’s decision to vote against a resolution calling for an end to the United States’ economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba.
“I want to say I stand firmly by the stand Trinidad and Tobago took with respect to the vote at the UN regarding Cuba. We cannot stand up and talk here and say leave Cuba alone. Twenty nine plus years it’s all been the same. It has not changed and therefore I stand for freedom. I stand for democracy and in Cuba the people deserve a democratic government.”
She maintained that Trinidad and Tobago could not demand democracy and free and fair elections at home while remaining silent when those freedoms were denied to citizens in neighbouring countries.
“They are suffering. We feel the human suffering of the Cuban people but we cannot stand by and do nothing or say nothing to support a military dictatorship in Cuba. They are our neighbors, they are our friends.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s election to the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, noting that the country secured 181 votes, representing approximately 95% of the votes cast.
She said the country will begin its first term on the Council in January and acknowledged the responsibility that came with the position.
“Our election carries an obligation to bring sound judgment to decisions affecting people threatened by conflict and vulnerable States. We will honour that trust, advance our nation’s interests and work for peace and security for all.”
Mrs Persad-Bissessar thanked the countries that supported Trinidad and Tobago’s candidacy, noting that several were represented at the Divali function.
Turning to regional and international security, the Prime Minister said governments must coordinate their efforts to address criminal networks operating across borders.
She pointed to Trinidad and Tobago’s engagement with the United States, including the Shield of the Americas and the Counter Cartel Coalition, as efforts to strengthen security cooperation.
“Criminal networks cross borders. Our response must do the same. Our engagement with the United States including the Shield of the Americas and the Counter Cartel Coalition strengthens security cooperation. Within CARICOM we are pressed for stronger governance and collective action.”
Mrs Persad-Bissessar said stronger cooperation within CARICOM was also necessary to protect citizens and address security challenges.
She added that the Government remained committed to promoting peace, security and democratic values both regionally and internationally.