Press Release: Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries
Dr the Honourable Roodal Moonilal Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, and the Honourable Ernesto Kesar Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries held discussions with a delegation from the United States Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago led by Mr Philip Kern, Chargé d’Affaires.
The meeting took place on 27 July 2026 at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries’ International Waterfront Complex, Head Office, Port-of-Spain. Mrs Karinsa Tulsie Permanent Secretary (Ag) at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries; Mrs Ava Mahabir-Dass, Permanent Secretary (Ag) at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries; Mrs Sheena Gosine, Energy Relations & International Affairs Advisor to the Minister at the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries were in attendance along Mr Jeffrey Cernyar, Economic Unit Chief at the United States. Embassy in Port of Spain.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the United States of America, with discussions focusing on political cooperation, energy and economic security and trade and investment opportunities. Mr Philip Kern, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Port of Spain noted that the current relationship between both countries present a unique moment in the history of bilateral relations, with both countries sharing several significant areas of mutual benefit and considerable opportunities for further cooperation.
Minister Moonilal reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining an open, constructive and accessible partnership with the United States, built on dialogue, cooperation and the exchange of ideas. Minister Moonilal noted that this approach reflects the Government’s broader commitment to international engagement under the leadership of the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar S.C., Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Discussions also covered recently signed Memoranda of Understanding for the proposed development of data centres and a steel plant in Trinidad and Tobago which forms part of the Government’s wider national revitalistation programme.
The Minister underscored the Government’s focus on revitalising the energy sector through increased exploration, production and value added activities. Minister Moonilal reiterated that Trinidad and Tobago remains open to responsible investment to boost oil and natural gas production, improve productivity, enhance oil recovery, support investment in the restart of the Pointe-a-Pierre refinery and expand downstream development.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration in advancing shared objectives in energy security, trade, investment and economic development.