The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee has held a nomination hearing for several diplomatic appointments, including the next U.S. ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago.
President Donald Trump has nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll, a former Florida lieutenant governor, for the post. If confirmed by the Senate, Johnson-Carroll, who is originally from Arouca, will become the first Trinidad and Tobago-born woman to serve as U.S. ambassador to T&T.
Speaking before the Committee, Mrs. Johnson-Carroll described the relationship between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago as strong, saying ties between the two countries are in a very good place at this time.
“Now the United States is experiencing a good relationship with the country Trinidad and Tobago in that they have been very supportive of the Caribbean Basin Initiative, such that they recognize that they do have a porous border and we do need some resources, or they need some resources in order to curtail against illicit human trafficking.”
She noted that opinions are becoming more aligned on the issue of oil and gas exploration, reflecting broader support for developing these natural resources.
“The United States is committed to move forward with a liscence that has been accepted for a sector in the Caribbean area between Venezuela. The country explore for additional resources which would also help the united states in its efforts to increase direct support for business opportunities”
The American Chamber of Commerce says the nomination highlights the achievements and growing influence of the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora on the international stage.