tidings
Shane Superville
Despite the challenges both countries face, US Ambassador to the TT Candace Bond is optimistic that diplomatic ties between her country and the TT can be further strengthened during her term in office.
Bond was appointed as ambassador to TT in March and succeeds Joseph Mondello who served as ambassador between October 2018 and January 2021.
Mondello died on August 1.
Prior to her appointment as ambassador, Bond, 57, worked as a business consultant and executive in the music industry and acted as a vice president for Motown Records.
She is the daughter of academic Anita Bond and surgeon-general Dr Leslie Bond, who were both activists during the civil rights era.
Speaking during her welcome reception in the ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port of Spain, on Wednesday night, Bond said she was impressed by TT’s multicultural background and hospitality.
She said the US and TT’s appreciation of diversity and inclusion were just two of the similarities shared by both countries, and she was eager to begin working with government and private sector entities to build a stronger economy.
Bond noted that while the US faced hardships and internal strife due to socio-political tensions, TT’s diversity was a reminder that different segments of society can coexist peacefully.
“Indeed the United States is an imperfect union, but at a time when our country is polarized by so many dividing lines, I am amazed at how the different ethnic groups here in Trinidad and Tobago participate with each other. – the other and celebrate.
“I’ve talked to Catholics who celebrate Diwali and Hindus who really get into the Christmas spirit.
“This rainbow nation may be what other countries fear, but it is truly an example of how we are all stronger together.”
Bond, who graduated from Harvard University, says she shares a friendship with US Vice President Kamala Harris that spans almost 40 years since they met as students.
Recalling the first news she received from Harris that she was being considered as ambassador to TT, Bond said she was fascinated by the foreign policy programs launched under the Biden-Harris administration and recognized the opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity.
“She told me about the framework for the administration’s ambitious 2030 initiative to strengthen energy security, promote climate resilience and improve access to development finance.
“From that moment I talked to him, I was sold and committed immediately.
“As a businesswoman and a servant leader, these are all areas where I have experience in business and community development. That is why I am particularly excited about the commitment of the president and vice president for the Caribbean region, and I can tell you from one on one conversations with them that they get it.
“They understand the importance of the region and that it has historically not received the attention and resources it truly deserves. That’s why I look forward to helping support their leadership at TT.
“Rest assured TT you have good friends in the White House as we work together on issues of security, governance and comprehensive programs.”
Bond said an area of focus during her time as ambassador would be to increase economic drivers through partnerships with government and private sector bodies.
While she acknowledges that natural gas remains a major contributor to TT’s GDP, Bond said diversifying energy sources and switching to more climate-friendly options were also high on her priorities.
“As the United States looks to partner with countries to reduce climate impacts and strengthen energy security, Trinidad and Tobago is well positioned to help accelerate the development of clean energy infrastructure and climate adaptation projects in the region.
“Through strong support for improved development financing and technical assistance, the United States can help foster TT’s transition to an even stronger economy.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Caricom Dr. spoke at the reception. Amery Browne who congratulated Bond on her appointment.
He also expressed optimism that Bond’s appointment would open up more opportunities for growth and trade with the US as an ally.
“I am confident that under your leadership and with our joint commitment, the cooperation and partnership between our two nations will be taken to new heights and we will discover new opportunities to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and United States of America. America”.
