Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister has delivered a sharp critique. Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated CARICOM is “not a reliable partner.” She believes the regional bloc has “lost its way.” This strong declaration follows new US travel restrictions. The United States imposed these on December 16, 2025. They target nationals of Antigua and Barbuda. Dominica also faces these curbs.
US Visa Restrictions Spark Regional Discontent
The US action stems from concerns about Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. These programs allow foreign nationals to gain citizenship. They do so by making significant investments. The US cited security and vetting issues. These programs, critics argue, can lack residency requirements. This poses challenges for screening travelers. The restrictions affect immigrant and some nonimmigrant visas.
Trinidad and Tobago Charts Its Own Course
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar publicly distanced herself. She stated Trinidad and Tobago is not party to the CARICOM Bureau’s statement. This statement expressed concern over the US actions. Persad-Bissessar emphasized national sovereignty. She believes each nation must accept policy consequences. The Prime Minister asserted that Trinidad and Tobago’s future is not dictated by CARICOM. Her government prioritizes national interests above all.
CARICOM’s Internal Divisions Exposed
The CARICOM Bureau had voiced its concern. It noted the US decision lacked prior consultation. The Bureau warned of adverse effects. These included impacts on travel and economies. However, Persad-Bissessar sees deeper issues within the community. She described CARICOM as “dysfunctional” and “self-destructive”. The Prime Minister highlighted internal problems. These include poor management and lax accountability. She also pointed to factional divisions.
Venezuela Stance Fuels Controversy
Persad-Bissessar also criticized CARICOM’s foreign policy alignment. She specifically mentioned support for Venezuela’s Maduro regime. She called it a “narco-government” led by a dictator. This support, she argued, undermines the bloc’s credibility. Furthermore, Venezuela has made threats. These threats targeted Guyana and even Trinidad and Tobago. Persad-Bissessar views CARICOM’s stance as a “fake zone of peace narrative”. This narrative, she suggested, aims to remove US military presence.
Regional Leaders React to Trinidad’s Stance
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s remarks have caused significant debate. Other regional leaders have criticized her position. Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne pushed back. He challenged her claims of condemning the US administration. Browne defended his country’s engagement with the US. He also highlighted regional solidarity. The situation reveals deep ideological rifts within the Caribbean community.
A Community at a Crossroads
Trinidad and Tobago’s independent foreign policy is well-documented. This stance often prioritizes national interests. The Prime Minister’s latest statements underscore this approach. She believes the Caribbean community needs transparency. Honest assessment is crucial to address its problems. The conflict highlights the challenges facing CARICOM. It must balance national interests with regional cooperation. The future of Caribbean unity remains a subject of intense discussion. These stories from the community shape its destiny. The bloc faces a critical juncture. It must confront its internal challenges directly. Otherwise, its effectiveness may continue to wane.