The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs is committed to transparency and accountability in the interest of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
At the Senate sitting on 3rd February, 2026 a written response was provided to the Opposition detailing requested information on the Honourable Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar's first official overseas visit to the United States which delivered substantial, measurable and immediate benefits for the people of Trinidad and Tobago, firmly positioning the country for renewed economic growth, strengthened international partnerships and enhanced national security.
The nine-day mission, conducted during the High-Level Week of the 80th Regular Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and official engagements in Washington, D.C., was executed with strict fiscal discipline and was budgeted at under TT$1 million, with minimal additional expenses arising from a special invitation by US Secretary of State Marco for the Prime Minister to visit Washington for a high level meeting bringing the total cost to TT$1.1 million.
This prudent, results-driven approach stands in stark contrast to the pattern under the former administration, where overseas travel often amounted to little more than taxpayer-funded joyriding with no tangible outcomes for citizens.
This Government’s approach is different: every engagement was strategic, purposeful and focused on delivering real returns for the nation.
Over the course of the visit, the Prime Minister and delegation participated in approximately 30 high-level meetings and events with world leaders, senior government officials, multilateral institutions and international investors. Trinidad and Tobago’s message was clear and unequivocal: the country is open for business and ready for investment.
The success of the mission has already generated significant global interest and directly supported the launch of Trinidad and Tobago’s Revitalisation Blueprint.
Key Outcomes and Benefits to Trinidad and Tobago
Energy Security and Economic Prosperity
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar secured direct support from the United States Government for the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s cross-border hydrocarbon resources following detailed discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Notably, the Prime Minister was the only Caribbean leader personally invited to Washington, D.C. for direct bilateral talks.
This breakthrough reverses years of delays related to licensing challenges and restores international confidence in Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. The resuscitation of these projects is expected to attract immediate global investment and safeguard long-term economic prosperity.
Strategic Investments from the Gulf Region
Bilateral meetings with the Crown Prince of Kuwait and the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates resulted in firm commitments to explore major investments in Trinidad and Tobago.
These nations control sovereign wealth funds worth hundreds of billions of U.S. dollars and have identified opportunities in:
• Ports and transport infrastructure
• Road networks
• Housing
• Financial services
• Energy projects
These discussions open the door to transformative capital inflows and long-term development partnerships.
Protection of Trinidad and Tobago’s Trade Interests
The Ministry secured a commitment from the United States to prioritise Trinidad and Tobago within its trade framework.
Trinidad and Tobago has been granted the opportunity to negotiate an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), a privilege selectively offered to key trading partners.
This agreement will safeguard preferential access for petrochemicals and non-energy exports to the country’s largest export market. Formal negotiations are now underway under the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs.
Enhanced Border Security and Crime Prevention
The Prime Minister obtained strong commitments from the United States for expanded collaboration in combating transnational crime, including drug and human trafficking.
Ongoing U.S. security operations in the Southern Caribbean have already contributed to a decline in cross-border criminal activity. Further cooperation will strengthen homeland security and protect citizens.
TT$94.19 Million Grant from the People’s Republic of China
Trinidad and Tobago executed a grant agreement valued at TT$94.19 million in goods and services- a grant, not a loan.
Priority projects include:
• Fire tenders for national emergency services
• Operationalisation of the Couva Children’s Hospital
• Construction of a Bi-Plane Catheterization Laboratory at the San Fernando General Hospital
These initiatives will directly enhance public safety and healthcare delivery nationwide.
Advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s Global Leadership
The delegation strengthened support for Trinidad and Tobago’s candidature for a seat on the United Nations Security Council (2027–2028). Election to the Security Council would place Trinidad and Tobago at the centre of global decision-making on peace and security, further elevating the country’s international standing.
Expanding Air Connectivity with Africa
Air Transport Agreements were concluded with Rwanda and Ghana, creating a framework for direct connectivity between Trinidad and Tobago and Africa in under 6.5 hours. This breakthrough will:
• Expand trade
• Strengthen tourism
• Deepen cultural and economic ties with Africa
Visa-Free Access to the United Arab Emirates
An agreement with the UAE establishes visa-free travel for Official and Diplomatic passport holders and will soon extend to all ordinary passport holders, benefiting every citizen of Trinidad and Tobago and facilitating easier travel, trade and business.
New Diplomatic Partnerships
Diplomatic relations were formally established with Benin, Monaco and Tunisia, expanding Trinidad and Tobago’s global footprint and opening new avenues for cooperation in trade, agriculture, tourism and investment.
A Results-Oriented Foreign Policy
This mission demonstrates the Government’s commitment to disciplined spending, strategic diplomacy and tangible outcomes. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s leadership has reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s credibility on the world stage and delivered concrete benefits that will translate into jobs, investment, security and improved quality of life for citizens.
The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs remains steadfast in advancing a foreign policy that is purposeful, practical and people-centred.
Every trip must deliver results. This one did.
