Energy cooperation, investment opportunities and economic development were among the key issues discussed when senior government officials met with representatives of the United States Embassy in Port-of-Spain earlier this week.
Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Dr Roodal Moonilal and Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries Ernesto Kesar held talks with a delegation led by United States Chargé d’Affaires Philip Kern at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries’ International Waterfront Complex headquarters on Monday.
Also attending the meeting were Acting Permanent Secretary Karinsa Tulsie, Acting Permanent Secretary Ava Mahabir-Dass, Energy Relations and International Affairs Advisor Sheena Gosine and Economic Unit Chief at the United States Embassy Jeffrey Cernyar.
According to the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries, the discussions reaffirmed the longstanding bilateral relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States, with a focus on political cooperation, energy and economic security, as well as trade and investment opportunities.
Kern said the current relationship between the two countries represents a unique moment in their shared history, highlighting several areas of mutual benefit and significant opportunities for expanded collaboration.
Moonilal reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining an open and constructive partnership with the United States through continued dialogue, cooperation and the exchange of ideas.
He said this approach reflects the Government’s broader commitment to international engagement under the leadership of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
The meeting also examined recently signed Memoranda of Understanding for the proposed development of data centres and a steel plant in Trinidad and Tobago. The ministry said these initiatives form part of the Government’s wider national revitalisation programme aimed at stimulating economic growth and attracting investment.
Moonilal outlined the Government’s plans to revitalise the energy sector by increasing exploration and production while expanding value-added activities across the industry.
He said Trinidad and Tobago remains open to responsible investment that supports increased oil and natural gas production, improves productivity and enhances oil recovery.
Moonilal also identified investment in restarting the Pointe-a-Pierre refinery and expanding downstream industries as priorities for the Government as it seeks to strengthen the country’s energy sector.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue and working together to advance shared objectives in energy security, trade, investment and broader economic development.
