JEFFRIES, CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION CONCLUDE VISIT TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
Brooklyn, NY — Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement upon concluding his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, the second Congressional delegation he led as Leader.
“Our bipartisan Congressional delegation departed Trinidad and Tobago after a productive and informational visit during which time we met with Heads of Government from the region, discussed pressing economic and geopolitical issues in the Caribbean and reaffirmed the strong partnership between the United States and our neighbors. We joined Secretary of State Antony Blinken to build on the historic partnership reignited by the Biden-Harris administration.
The delegation participated in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government Conference commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of the organization. During a meeting with all of the Heads of Government, led by CARICOM’s Chair the Honorable Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, we discussed several issues of mutual concern, including the rise of gun trafficking, the climate crisis, access to banking institutions and economic development. Our delegation also had productive bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr. Keith Rowley and the Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley.
While in Trinidad and Tobago, we met with other government ministers and civil society leaders to underscore the importance of our relationship with the host nation. We also visited HADCO Phase II Pan Groove Panyard and were inspired by the soul, culture and grit of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. During a meeting with Trinidad and Tobago’s American Chamber of Commerce, the delegation echoed our commitment to strengthening our bilateral ties and supporting economic growth.
The United States and the Caribbean are deeply intertwined, anchored in our geographic proximity, security concerns and economic interests. The Western Hemisphere is stronger because of the relationships that bind it together. We will continue building and strengthening the bond between the U.S. and our Caribbean neighbors.”
Additional photos may be viewed here.
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