Trinidad and Tobago could be heading for renewed high-level engagement with Venezuela, with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar saying plans are being explored for a meeting with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez later this month on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Prime Minister made the disclosure while speaking with reporters at the Hall of Justice following the Commemorative Opening of the 2026/2027 Law Term on Wednesday.
“I love her. I look forward to meeting her. In fact, I think we are hoping to meet over there when we go up to the UN. UNGA? UNGA, yes. I think there is a plan that we will visit at the end of September, 25th of September or something. Yes, there is a plan. If it doesn’t happen, I’ll let you know. But that is a plan. Minister Sobers is working on it. If it works out, it happens. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll let you know.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar signalled optimism over Trinidad and Tobago’s relationship with Venezuela, telling citizens to expect the best from the relationship as more is to come.
The Prime Minister said Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Sean Sobers’ recent visit to Venezuela was successful, describing the relationship between the two countries as a close one.
“Minister Sobers did very well. He was very successful in his visit. And I think, look, you may not know, my mother-in-law is Venezuelan. My two grand-nephews are Venezuelan. Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela, we have very, very close ties. So whatever has to be done, we will do in the best interest of Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.”
And one of the key areas of interest is Venezuelan natural gas.
The PM is confident the gas will eventually reach Trinidad and Tobago, pointing to the countries’ close proximity and existing agreements with energy companies.
“I have absolutely no doubt that gas from Venezuela will come to Trinidad and Tobago. It is the only funnel, the only place it can pass. We are seven miles away, and it will come. We have already signed agreements with bp. We hope to conclude agreements with Shell and others, XRG and many other companies. I have absolutely no doubt that in the next year, we will see natural gas coming to Trinidad and Tobago. And part of it has to do with rapprochement with Venezuela. We are neighbours, but we are in fact family, as I just shared with you.”