Energy Minister: Dragon Gas Agreement Intact
« T&T has not lost a dollar. »
That’s the statement from Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, who dismissed speculation that recent developments in Venezuela have jeopardised cross‑border energy deals.
Speaking at a Post Cabinet Media Briefing on Thursday evening, he said while Venezuela remains part of T&T’s energy strategy, that country has historically had limited commercial dealings with T&T, besides a few agreements.
He confirmed that the OFAC licence governing the Dragon Gas project is still in effect, adding that the work continues under its conditions.
« That remains in place and to my knowledge that licence is in effect and work has continued pursuant to the conditions of that licence. There has been no change in that. »
Dr. Moonilal, though, stated that T&T’s focus extends beyond Venezuela, with plans to deepen energy partnerships across South America and beyond.
He noted that foreign companies involved in the gas deals are monitoring the developments closely.
« Shell is involved, of course, in the Dragon field. bp is involved as well in other projects. We have been alerted during this period by those companies and others as well that their work programme continues. They are calmly monitoring developments, but they will proceed with all arrangements that have been in place before. There has been absolutely no change. »
