Motions

WHEREAS the conduct of the foreign relations of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is vested in the Executive and must be exercised in accordance with the Constitution, the United Nations Charter, and the principles of peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for sovereignty, non-intervention, and prudent diplomacy;

AND WHEREAS Trinidad and Tobago’s national interests—including citizen safety, regional security, trade, aviation, fisheries, and energy cooperation—are directly affected by relations with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela;

AND WHEREAS recent developments have given rise to an impasse between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela, risking adverse consequences for our economy, national security, and international standing;

AND WHEREAS public statements attributed to the Prime Minister regarding these developments have been viewed as inflammatory, and injurious to the reputation and interests of Trinidad and Tobago, generating public concern and diplomatic unease;

AND WHEREAS CARICOM has long advanced a collective approach to external relations, particularly security challenges, to ensure the region remains a zone of peace, which may be interpreted to be at variance with the Prime Minister’s statements;

AND WHEREAS Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign policy must be coherent, measured, and aligned with the long-standing traditions of Caribbean diplomacy and international law:

BE IT RESOLVED that this House condemn the inflammatory statements of the Prime Minister which have isolated Trinidad and Tobago and harmed its standing and interest.

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this House call upon the Government to reaffirm Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to CARICOM and to the upholding of international law.

(By the Member for Arima)