The following is attributable to Acting Spokesperson Tom Babington:

U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Mark Green visited Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago May 9-10. The Administrator met with Minister of National Security Stuart Young, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dennis Moses, and the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago Faris Al-Rawi to discuss shared challenges and opportunities facing the United States and Trinidad and Tobago. Administrator Green touched on the dire humanitarian situation in Venezuela that is impacting the entire region, including the need to ensure safety and security for young democratic voices who have been forced to flee the tyranny of Nicolas Maduro. The Administrator reiterated the United States' commitment to crime and violence prevention efforts under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, particularly efforts to promote youth development and the rule of law.

In Chaguanas, Administrator Green met with Mayor Gopaul Boodhan and International Woman of Courage award-recipient Sensei Marva John Logan, at a U.S. Government-supported dojo that promotes youth development and provides alternatives to gangs and criminal activities. He also visited a USAID-supported HIV/AIDS site and met with vulnerable people receiving life-saving treatment. The Administrator toured a Children Court once supported by USAID that is now sustained entirely by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, an important example of USAID's commitment to the journey to self-reliance.

Administrator Green also met with Venezuelans who have fled their country, as well as organizations that are partnering with the United States to provide them with critical services. Administrator Green also highlighted the $1.6 million USAID is providing to address the medium- and long-term needs of Venezuelans in Trinidad and Tobago and the local communities generously hosting them.