00:00Nicholas says the results reflect a clear shift on the ground, with the PNM losing traction
00:07among its traditional supporters in Tobago. He tells The Morning Edition PNM's support
00:13has dwindled significantly.
00:15Honestly, the PNM isn't offering an alternative at this time. Nobody that I speak with who
00:26are loyal to the PNM or not, whether in Trinidad or Tobago, see PNM as a serious alternative
00:34at this time. I mean, I was very surprised going up in areas like Charlotteville and elsewhere
00:42in Tobago and meeting with these old fishermen and stuff and they were quite adamant about
00:48it. I mean, the PNM has completely lost its way.
00:52He calls for stronger emphasis on tourism, saying the island's cultural assets and natural
00:58beauty are key drivers that should be maximized to create jobs and sustainable growth.
01:04Turning to economic strategy, Nicholas says the country in general cannot rely solely on
01:10the energy sector.
01:11Even if we do get some kind of arrangement in the short or medium term with Venezuela,
01:19and that is up for grabs at the moment. We do know what is happening with regards to
01:24the short term future of Venezuela. But even if we get those things up and running, those
01:32things should not be the sole basis for economy. We have too much in Trinidad and Tobago to offer
01:38the world than just oil and gas.
01:41As it relates to the wider geopolitical tensions, Nicholas warns against placing all strategic
01:47reliance on the United States, noting the unpredictability of the U.S. President's foreign policy.
01:54At the end of the day, you know that Donald Trump, President Trump is very transactional in his
02:00approach to all things. So really and truly, whatever is the easiest way out for him to move
02:08forward would be that way. With regards to how he sees Trinidad, I really don't know how he sees
02:14Trinidad. Trinidad might just have been a pawn in his big oil game. And therefore, he might simply
02:24turn his back on Trinidad and Tobago. Who knows?
02:27Still, he says, the country has always been important to the U.S. and especially now as
02:33China is placing its focus on this part of the world. Nicole M. Romney, TV6 News.
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