Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term faces significant challenges following its controversial alignment with the United States in recent military actions. Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Amery Browne has criticized the government, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, for isolating the nation from its Caribbean counterparts. Regional reports suggest that TT’s endorsement by the Caribbean Community (Caricom) may be revoked due to its support for US military strikes, which resulted in 32 fatalities. Browne expressed concern that Persad-Bissessar’s “isolationist and exceptionalist posture” has tarnished TT’s reputation as a regional leader in diplomacy and consensus-building. He emphasized that TT’s foreign policy, traditionally rooted in neutrality and respect for international law, has been compromised. The Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) reported that Caricom leaders are reconsidering TT’s candidacy, citing its departure from regional solidarity. Browne lamented the potential loss of TT’s hard-earned diplomatic legacy, urging the government to restore its standing. Meanwhile, Caricom reiterated its commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a zone of peace and resolving disputes through dialogue. Efforts to contact current Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers for comment were unsuccessful.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
-
Experts necessary
The West Indies cricket team’s ongoing struggles have once again come under scrutiny following their lackluster performance in the first One-Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh. Despite Brandon King’s top score of 44 runs, the team’s overall display was marred by a lack of fighting spirit and preparation, raising questions about their ability to compete at the international level. Critics have pointed fingers at the team’s leadership, including coach Daren Sammy and captain Shai Hope, for their failure to inspire confidence and deliver results. Sammy’s recent comments, emphasizing the need to play ‘exceptionally well’ to beat Bangladesh, have been met with disbelief, as such a mindset is seen as undermining the team’s potential. The West Indies’ recent loss to Nepal in a three-match series further highlights their decline, with many attributing the team’s poor form to inadequate leadership and a lack of strategic vision. Calls for the inclusion of cricket experts in the team’s management have grown louder, as fans and analysts alike demand accountability from the current administration, including director of cricket Miles Bascombe and president Kishore Shallow. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul to restore the West Indies’ once-proud cricketing legacy.
-
Nutrien to shut down Trinidad nitrogen operations
Nutrien Ltd, a leading global crop-input producer based in Canada, has announced a controlled shutdown of its Trinidad Nitrogen operations at the Point Lisas Industrial Estate, effective October 23. The decision stems from ongoing port access restrictions imposed by Trinidad and Tobago’s National Energy Corporation (NEC) and persistent challenges in securing affordable and reliable natural gas supplies. These issues have significantly reduced the free cash flow contribution of the Trinidad operations over an extended period.
-
Akeal Hosein bowls West Indies to Super-Over victory over Bangladesh
In a nail-biting encounter at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium on October 21, the West Indies leveled their three-match One-Day International series against Bangladesh with a dramatic Super Over victory. The match, which ended in a tie at 213 runs apiece, saw left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein emerge as the hero for the Caribbean side. Hosein’s composed bowling in the Super Over restricted Bangladesh to 9/1, allowing the West Indies to secure a one-run win after posting 10/1 in their Super Over innings. The Windies’ trio of Shai Hope, Brandon King, and Sherfane Rutherford faced Mustafizur Rahman in the decisive over, while Hosein’s over was marked by wides and a no-ball but crucially no boundaries conceded. Earlier in the match, Bangladesh’s innings was anchored by opener Soumya Sarkar’s 45 and a blistering 39 not out from Rishad Hossain, who propelled the team past 200. West Indies’ bowling attack, led by Gudakesh Motie (3/65) and Alick Athanaze (2/14), kept the hosts in check. In response, the Windies’ chase was a rollercoaster, with Hope’s unbeaten 53 guiding them to a tie. The series decider will be played on October 23.
-
Ministry: Minimal impact from tropical wave
The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government reported that a tropical wave passing through Trinidad and Tobago on October 19 caused only short-term street flooding in some communities, with no significant widespread impact. By October 21, the weather system had moved away, and conditions across most areas had improved. The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) discontinued its adverse weather alert, but disaster management units (DMUs) across all 14 municipal corporations remain on high alert, particularly in flood- and landslide-prone areas. Minister Khadijah Ameen praised the swift coordination of first responders, DMU personnel, and community volunteers, crediting their efforts and mitigation work by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure (MOWI) for minimizing potential damage. She expressed gratitude for the absence of major losses and emphasized the ongoing commitment to citizen safety. The ministry urged residents to remain vigilant during the rainy season, secure their properties, and stay informed through official TTMS updates and DMU hotlines for assistance.
-
CAL provides 3,200 more seats for Tobago carnival
In response to the soaring demand for the Tobago Carnival, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has announced a significant increase in flight capacity to facilitate smoother travel for both locals and tourists. From October 22 to 29, Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) will add 3,200 extra seats to its existing inventory, supplementing the already available 18,792 seats. To support this expansion, an additional Boeing 737 aircraft will be deployed to enhance the airbridge between Trinidad and Tobago, alleviating travel congestion and ensuring more people can partake in the festivities.
The decision to bolster air travel was the result of persistent advocacy by key figures, including Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, Tobago West MP Joel Sampson, Tobago East MP David Thomas, and Secretary for Culture and Antiquities Zorisha Hackett. In a media release on October 21, the THA also acknowledged the contributions of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, line minister Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour, and the CAL board. Their collaborative efforts have led to a tangible improvement in airlift services during one of Tobago’s most cherished cultural events, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
-
Occupational therapy association aims to expand services in local healthcare
As World Occupational Therapy Day approaches on October 27, the Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Therapy Association (TTOTA) is marking its 20th anniversary with a celebration of progress, inclusion, and advocacy. Under the theme “Occupational Therapy in Action,” the association is highlighting the transformative power of the profession in fostering independence and wellbeing for individuals of all ages.
-
Murally appointed Carib managing director
In a landmark appointment, Leesa Murally has been named the first female managing director of Carib Brewery Ltd, a subsidiary of the Ansa McAL group, effective November 1. This historic move underscores the company’s commitment to diversity and leadership excellence. Murally, who currently serves as the beverage sector’s chief financial officer and corporate secretary to the board of Caribbean Development Company Ltd (CDC), brings a wealth of experience in finance, risk management, and corporate governance. Her career spans key roles at CDC and Witco, and she currently sits on the boards of CDC, Bayside Towers, and Community Chest. Murally’s academic credentials include an MBA in strategic planning from Heriot-Watt University, and she is a Fellow of the ACCA and a Certified Internal Auditor. Known for her people-centered leadership style, Murally has a proven track record of driving continuous improvement, fostering data-driven decision-making, and enhancing governance and cybersecurity. In addition to Murally’s appointment, Ansa McAL announced David Welch as the new managing director of AMCO, effective November 1. Welch, with over 25 years of experience in the FMCG industry, previously served as managing director of Carib Brewery and marketing director at CBL. The group expressed confidence that both leaders will play pivotal roles in advancing the beverage and distribution sectors’ growth and success.
-
Transforming Tobago tourism
In a compelling appeal to Tobago’s tourism leaders, a concerned citizen has called for a transformative shift in the island’s tourism strategy. The current focus on luxury tourism, while beneficial in some aspects, risks creating economic exclusion and limiting opportunities for local communities. The author advocates for a more inclusive model termed ‘equal tourism,’ which aims to broaden participation and ensure that the benefits of tourism growth are shared equitably among citizens, small businesses, and communities. The proposal emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes affordability, community engagement, and sustainable development. Key recommendations include reframing connectivity strategies, supporting mid-tier accommodations, expanding community-based tourism, and upgrading infrastructure. Additionally, the author stresses the importance of smarter marketing, stronger governance, and local empowerment to ensure Tobago’s tourism sector thrives in a way that benefits all stakeholders. The article highlights the success of similar strategies in other Caribbean nations and urges Tobago to embrace a model that reflects its unique identity and values. By fostering a tourism industry rooted in fairness and accessibility, Tobago can protect its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community spirit while achieving long-term economic resilience.
-
Witco announces change in directors
The West Indian Tobacco Company Ltd (Witco) has witnessed a significant change in its leadership as Luis Verenzuela resigned from his position as a director, effective October 10. Verenzuela, who joined the board in July 2023, is set to transition into a new role within the British American Tobacco (BAT) group. His departure was officially announced on the TT Stock Exchange website on October 21. Taking over Verenzuela’s responsibilities is Gustavo Gonzalez, who assumed the role of director on October 16. Gonzalez boasts an impressive track record, having spent over two decades with the BAT group, most recently serving as the operations director for Latin America North and Caribbean. The board of directors expressed gratitude for Verenzuela’s contributions and extended a warm welcome to Gonzalez, highlighting his extensive experience and expertise.