U.S. Assistance to Trinidad and Tobago
The U.S. Government provides technical assistance to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago through a number of existing agreements. A Customs Advisory Team from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security works with the Ministry of Finance to update its procedures. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, collaborates with the Ministry of Health and regional partners to strengthen HIV/AIDS programs and to build public health capacity to combat mosquito-borne viruses, such as improving laboratory systems and services. Trinidad and Tobago is a participant in the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), the U.S. government’s regional citizen security and youth development assistance program. In 2015- 2016, the U.S. Government helped the Government of Trinidad and Tobago sign and begin implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The U.S. Embassy’s extensive cultural, sports, and education programs and exchanges strengthened the bilateral relationship, increased economic opportunities for youth, increased their leadership skills, and encouraged them to continue their education and give back to their communities.