Prime Minister Leads Diplomatic Talks With Visiting Us Diplomat
August 10, 2026 — Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar led high-level bilateral discussions today with visiting United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Trinidad, marking a key milestone in deepening strategic diplomatic, security, and economic cooperation between Port of Spain and Washington.
The official diplomatic mission focused on advancing shared hemispheric priorities, including regional security, maritime border defense, counter-narcotics coordination, and industrial energy resilience. Strengthening Security Ties & Economic Partnerships
Talks between the Prime Minister and the US delegation centered on translating close diplomatic ties into concrete operational and economic benefits:
Expanding Security & Defense Cooperation: Discussions addressed ongoing tactical exchanges, counter-trafficking measures, and regional crime prevention. The collaboration aligns with enhanced joint operational readiness between the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force and US security agencies to protect maritime borders and dismantle transnational narcotics networks.
Energy Resilience & Industrial Investment: In addition to government-to-government security talks, Deputy Secretary Landau joined Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John to officially cut the ribbon reopening the Ibis Steel Company of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd. on the Point Lisas Industrial Estate in Couva, signaling renewed commercial and manufacturing investment.
Cultural & Diplomatic Exchanges: Accompanied by US Chargé d’Affaires Philip Kern, the visiting US delegation engaged with local cultural institutions, including a visit to the Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra and local community stops.
The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs reaffirmed that the bilateral meetings underscore a mutual commitment to regional stability and sustainable economic development across the southern Caribbean.
