The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has welcomed the upcoming visit of the USS Gravely and the 22nd U.S. Marine Expeditionary Unit, which will dock in Port of Spain from October 26 to 30 for joint training exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF).

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, in a media release on the United National Congress Facebook page, described the visit as a positive development for national security, highlighting its role in enhancing operational readiness and protective capabilities.

“This visit augurs well for our nation. It represents a continued partnership in strengthening our national security, enhancing operational readiness, and improving protective capabilities,” Mrs Persad-Bissessar stated.

She noted that the partnership reflects ongoing cooperation under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), first established in 2007 and most recently renewed in December 2024, along with other defense arrangements such as the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement.

“The United States and Trinidad and Tobago have had a SOFA in place since 2007, which was renewed in 2013 and again in December 2024,” Mrs Persad-Bissessar said.

In her statement, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of secure borders to combat drug, arms, and human trafficking, citing the tragic toll of violence over the past two decades.

She also criticized the opposition PNM, accusing the party of attempting to undermine government efforts to address these security challenges for the benefit of alleged drug mafia financiers.

“Unfortunately, the Opposition PNM and their agents are persistent in creating unnecessary hysteria and conspiracy theories in a desperate attempt to create instability and chaos,” the Prime Minister said.

“Most disheartening is that the historically PNM-controlled constituencies are the ones most affected by drugs and bloody gang violence, fuelled by the actions of the drug cartels. Yet the PNM and their agents choose to put the interests of their drug mafia financiers in front of their own constituents,” the statement added.

Mrs Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed her government’s commitment to working with international partners to safeguard the nation, stating firmly that the safety and security of Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens remain the top priority.

“We need all the help we can get to protect our people. Trinidad and Tobago must always come first. My government will continue to work with our international partners to strengthen our institutions and safeguard our nation.”