A significant diplomatic rift has emerged within Trinidad and Tobago’s political leadership over the nation’s relationship with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has launched a stern critique against Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, characterizing her recent comments about CARICOM as ‘reckless’ and potentially isolating for the nation.
The controversy originated from Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s December 20th statement labeling CARICOM an ‘unreliable partner’ and ‘dysfunctional organization.’ These remarks came in response to CARICOM’s call for engagement with the United States following President Donald Trump’s implementation of restrictive entry policies affecting citizens from Haiti, Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda.
During a Christmas event at Balisier House in Port of Spain, Beckles emphasized Trinidad and Tobago’s historical tradition of maintaining an independent foreign policy while simultaneously valuing regional cooperation. ‘CARICOM has always supported us,’ Beckles stated, surrounded by children at the PNM’s holiday gathering. ‘At the end of the day, it is not just about narco trafficking. It is about everything – tourism, natural disasters, every single thing you think about.’
Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne, former minister of foreign affairs, supported Beckles’ position with a striking allegation: ‘This is the first time this country has had a PM who is overtly against the Caribbean Community.’ He referenced Persad-Bissessar’s absence from recent CARICOM leadership meetings and her consistent criticism of the organization’s ‘zone of peace’ framework.
The Prime Minister’s office defended its position through WhatsApp communications with Newsday, vehemently distancing Trinidad and Tobago from Venezuelan leadership. ‘CARICOM has aligned itself with the Maduro narco government headed by a dictator who has imprisoned or killed thousands of Venezuelans who oppose him,’ Persad-Bissessar stated. ‘TT wants no part of that alignment.’
Beckles countered that Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereignty within international organizations like the United Nations remains crucial despite its size. ‘Yes, we are a small country but the sovereignty issue is very important. TT, Guyana, Antigua and Jamaica, at the end of the day at the UN, we all have a vote.’
The Opposition Leader also addressed concerns about Trinidad and Tobago’s relationship with the United States, acknowledging the nation’s significant trade partnership while maintaining that differing viewpoints at international forums don’t diminish mutual respect between the two democracies.
This developing situation represents one of the most significant public disagreements over foreign policy in recent Trinidad and Tobago history, with implications for both regional Caribbean unity and the nation’s international relationships.