US Leaders In Trinidad

News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Weds. July 5, 2023: The US Secretary of State and a US Congressional delegation are in Trinidad and Tobago to mark the 50th anniversary of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is there as is Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who is leading a bipartisan Congressional delegation.

Blinken reassured attendees that the United States is committed to restoring security in Haiti, a nation plagued by a combination of violence and poverty. He expressed solidarity with the region’s determination to support the Haitian people in shaping their future and restoring democratic order through free and fair elections. Emphasizing the crucial role of security in achieving these goals, he highlighted the United States’ significant support as the largest international donor to the Haitian National Police. Further, Blinken acknowledged the nation’s call for a multinational force to help restore security, although he did not specify who would lead such a force.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (L), escorted by secret service members, arrives to the tribute ceremony to mark CARICOM’s 50th anniversary, in the framework of the 45th Caribbean Community’s Heads of Government meeting in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago on July 5, 2023. (Photo by -/Trinidad Express Newspaper/AFP via Getty Images)

The Congressional delegation’s primary objective during their visit to Trinidad and Tobago is to meet with Caribbean leaders and engage in discussions on crucial economic and geopolitical issues within the Western Hemisphere. Furthermore, they aim to reinforce the strong partnership between the United States and its Caribbean neighbors.

Additionally, the delegation will have direct engagements with the government of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as civil society leaders, to address various topics, including regional security, economic growth, the climate crisis, and energy.

Leader Jeffries expressed his honor in leading this esteemed Congressional delegation, which includes prominent members from relevant committees and subcommittees, focusing on critical issues throughout the Caribbean and Western Hemisphere. The delegation anticipates a productive and enlightening visit.

The Members of the delegation are:

Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
Rep. Amata Coleman Radewagen, Member, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs; Member, Natural Resources Committee; Member, Foreign Affairs Committee
Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member, Foreign Affairs Committee; Member, Committee on Financial Services
Rep. Steven Horsford, Chair, Congressional Black Caucus; Member, Financial Services Committee; Member, Armed Services Committee
Rep. Yvette D. Clarke, Member, Committee on Energy and Commerce; Member, Committee on Homeland Security
Rep. Joyce Beatty, Member, Committee on Financial Services
Rep. Joaquin Castro, Member, Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; Member, Foreign Affairs Committee

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently visited Haiti and underscored the urgent need for a robust international force to stabilize the country, as widespread violence and humanitarian needs continue to escalate. The United States is actively advocating for new elections in Haiti, with Blinken set to urge Prime Minister Ariel Henry to work with Haitian stakeholders to broaden the political consensus and establish a clear path towards democratic order.

Blinken’s visit to the Caribbean summit also focused on addressing climate change and tackling crime in the region, with the announcement of the appointment of Michael Ben’Ary as the first US coordinator for Caribbean firearms prosecutions. Additionally, Blinken is scheduled to visit Guyana during his two-day trip.