Prime Minister Rowley criticized Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her remarks about the Venezuelan government, claiming they could jeopardize the Dragon gas deal. He addressed her accusations of dictatorship against Maduro, stating that such comments are unpatriotic and could provoke negative repercussions for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. Rowley urged citizens to remain vigilant about the implications of such political discourse.
The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley, has publicly criticized Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her comments regarding the Venezuelan government. In a Facebook statement dated February 27, Rowley expressed concern that Persad-Bissessar’s remarks might jeopardize the Dragon gas deal between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.
On February 25, addressing the media, Persad-Bissessar characterized President Nicolas Maduro’s administration as a “dictatorial, kleptocratic and drug-trafficking” regime, alleging that Energy Minister Stuart Young, set to succeed Rowley, facilitated the contested Dragon deal. She expressed doubts about Rowley’s commitment to the dealings with Venezuela as he approaches retirement from politics, predicting a similar negative outcome for Young.
Rowley, referencing past criticisms by both Persad-Bissessar and Oropouche East MP Dr. Roodal Moonilal regarding the government’s attempts to secure the Dragon deal, recalled that a license for its development was granted by the Venezuelan government to NGC and Shell on December 21, 2023. This license was crucially influenced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, under the Biden administration, amid worries that the new political landscape in the U.S. could threaten the project.
The Dragon gas deal, initially worth US$1 billion, was created in August 2018 but was stalled following U.S. sanctions against Venezuela in 2019. Previously, on November 6, the Prime Minister had communicated with then-President Trump, emphasizing the longstanding relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States, focusing on collaboration across various sectors.
Dr. Rowley further rebuked Persad-Bissessar’s actions, labeling them as “unpatriotic” and suggesting they might provoke a negative response from Venezuela, potentially disrupting Trinidad and Tobago’s gas supplies. He remarked that her interpretation of “kleptocratic” holds significance, humorously questioning the rationale for her party using such language against Maduro. Lastly, Rowley cautioned citizens to be aware of these political maneuvers, indicating that meaningful discussions are critical for the nation’s future.
In summary, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley condemned Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s remarks on the Venezuelan government, asserting they may threaten critical energy agreements. He emphasized the need for stability in international relations to safeguard Trinidad and Tobago’s energy supplies, while highlighting the irresponsibility of political attacks during sensitive negotiations.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
