The Honourable Sean Sobers M.P., Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) enabling the creation of a Coordination Mechanism to support Integrated Ocean Governance in the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf Large Marine Ecosystems (CLME+ region) on 8th August, 2025. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry’s headquarters and represents a pivotal step in advancing national and regional efforts toward sustainable ocean management.
The MoU, now endorsed by 17 States and 9 Intergovernmental Organisations (IGOs), officially activates the Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) under the ProCaribePlus Project. This regional initiative seeks to protect and restore the ocean’s natural capital, build resilience, and support investments for inclusive, sustainable blue socio-economic development across the CLME+ region.
This agreement reflects Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and enhancing national capacity for the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources. It aligns with the country’s strategic priorities in environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and economic diversification.
Benefits to Trinidad and Tobago
Participation in the Coordination Mechanism offers Trinidad and Tobago a suite of strategic advantages:
- Sustainable Blue Economy: Supports the development of a resilient, ocean-based economy that balances environmental protection with economic opportunity. This includes promoting sustainable fisheries, marine spatial planning, eco-tourism, and innovation in ocean-based industries. By participating in the Coordination Mechanism, Trinidad and Tobago will be better positioned to attract investment, foster job creation in coastal communities, and ensure long-term economic benefits from its marine resources—all while safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Enhanced Programme Coordination: Facilitates national monitoring of ocean sustainability goals and supports the implementation of the Strategic Action Programme (SAP).
- Scientific Collaboration: Enables data sharing with research and academic institutions to inform legislation on ocean pollution and climate change.
- Resource Mobilisation: Supports cross-sectoral policy integration and access to funding for national ocean governance initiatives.
- Policy Coherence: Promotes alignment of institutional and policy frameworks across multiple governance levels.
- Efficient Communication: Strengthens collaboration among countries, IGOs, and stakeholders in the development and implementation of ocean-related programmes.
The signing of the MoU is supported by the Tobago House of Assembly, the Institute of Marine Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, and the Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development. Importantly, the MoU imposes no financial obligations and preserves the sovereign rights of Member States, with the flexibility to discontinue cooperation at any time.
