Gen Caine, Kamla discuss regional crime

In a significant diplomatic engagement, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, made a brief but impactful visit to Trinidad and Tobago on November 25. The high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar underscored the enduring alliance between the two nations, particularly in addressing regional security challenges. Caine, who had initially planned to visit Puerto Rico to engage with US troops stationed there, altered his itinerary to include a stop in Port of Spain. The meeting, held at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, also included key Trinidadian officials such as Attorney General John Jeremie, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. Lasting less than two hours, the discussions focused on combating narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and transnational crime, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to regional stability. Following the meeting, Caine departed in a heavily guarded convoy, emphasizing the high-security nature of the visit. Meanwhile, Suriname has voiced concerns over US aggression towards Venezuela, with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil and Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons jointly condemning US military actions in the Caribbean. This development highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, as nations navigate alliances and tensions.