Persad-Bissessar Meets Trump at Shield of the Americas Summit as Security Cooperation Tops Agenda
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is in the United States for the Shield of the Americas Summit, where she is expected to meet President Donald Trump and senior U.S. officials to seek security assistance and strengthen diplomatic ties — even as opposition figures question the government’s consultation process.
2 min read
By Aurax Radio — Updated March 7, 2026
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-BissessarÂ
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is attending the Shield of the Americas Summit and is expected to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Officials say Trinidad and Tobago is seeking stronger cooperation with the United States in areas such as intelligence sharing, law-enforcement support and maritime security.
Security cooperation expected to dominate talks
Officials say Trinidad and Tobago is hoping to secure greater collaboration with the United States to combat drug trafficking and transnational criminal networks operating throughout the Caribbean.
A key diplomatic moment for Trinidad and Tobago
Government officials say the summit offers an opportunity to strengthen relations with Washington while addressing regional security concerns.
The Seat of Parliament Trinidad and Tobago: The Red House
Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard
Opposition raises concerns
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has criticised the government for not consulting opposition leaders before attending the summit.
Leader of the oposition: Pennelope Beckles
Caribbean leaders among attendees
Regional leaders, including Irfaan Ali of Guyana, are also expected to participate in the summit discussions.
Trump National Doral Miami, the venue for the Shield of the Americas Summit.
Regional security at the forefront
Officials say the initiative aims to strengthen partnerships across the hemisphere to tackle transnational criminal networks and improve border security.
For Trinidad and Tobago, the summit could lead to expanded cooperation with the United States in areas such as intelligence sharing, maritime surveillance and anti-drug trafficking operations.
Sources: