Trinidad and Tobago is strengthening its digital defences through a new international partnership, as cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated and borderless.
On Friday, the country officially joined the Latin American and Caribbean Cyber Competence Centre (LAC4), in a move aimed at enhancing national cyber resilience and protecting critical infrastructure.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark the occasion, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander said cybersecurity is no longer an issue confined to information technology professionals, but has become a critical matter of national security.
He warned that cyber threats pose growing risks to governments, businesses and citizens worldwide.
“Cyber security is no longer a technical issue confined to information technology professionals. It is a matter of national security, economic stability, public confidence and international cooperation. Every day government, business and individuals face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats that transcend national borders. No country, regardless of its size – so you could imagine where we sit, our resources, us again – can address these challenges in isolation.”
European Union Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Cécile Tassin, welcomed the country’s accession to LAC4, noting that cybersecurity is a key pillar of successful digital transformation and public trust.
“The European Union is proud to accompany Trinidad and Tobago on that journey. Cyber security has become an essential foundation for digital transformation. Citizens will only embrace digital public services if they trust them. Businesses will only invest in digital innovation if they are confident that their data and operations are secure. And governments can only fully benefit from digitalisation if critical infrastructure is resilient against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.”
Minister Alexander said membership in LAC4 will give T&T access to regional and European cybersecurity experts, specialised training and opportunities for policy dialogue and practical collaboration.
“By joining the LAC4, Trinidad and Tobago gain access to the dynamic network of regional and European experts, specialised training, policy, dialogue and opportunities for practical collaboration. This partnership will strengthen our institutional capacity, enhance our cyber resilience and support our borders and national digital and transformational agendas.”
The Ministry of Homeland Security said the partnership reflects Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity, protecting critical infrastructure and improving the country’s ability to prevent, respond to and recover from cyber threats.