Regional diplomacy is in focus as CARICOM Chair and St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Terence Drew, prepares to visit Trinidad and Tobago for talks with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
The visit forms part of outreach to newly elected regional leaders, with discussions expected to centre on regional cooperation, security, and developments in Venezuela.
Dr. Drew’s visit comes as CARICOM seeks to strengthen coordination among Member States following recent leadership changes across the region. Trinidad and Tobago’s High Commissioner to CARICOM, Ralph Maraj, says early engagement is key to maintaining unity within the bloc.
“This is a good opportunity, a welcome opportunity for the Chairman to discuss issues with the newly elected Prime Minister, the new Prime Minister, and to get views and perspectives, all in the interest of coherence and unanimity going forward.”
Mr. Maraj says the discussions are also taking place against the backdrop of shared regional concerns including Venezuela’s political instability and its potential impact on neighbouring states.
“So there is a common position, essentially, between Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister and the rest of CARICOM. And I’m saying there is an opportunity for a united CARICOM voice to press for the process of democratic change in Venezuela.”
Dr. Drew is expected to meet Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar and members of Cabinet during the visit.