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 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 collaboration reignited by the Biden-Harris administration.
The delegation participated in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government Conference, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the organization’s founding. 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.”
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 CommitteeimageLeader’s Press.
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