The Prime Minister recently defended his discussions with Indian businessman Naveen Jindal regarding the potential interest of Jindal Steel and Power Ltd in the Petrotrin refinery in Pointe-a-Pierre. This topic was addressed during the 51st annual PNM San Fernando West constituency conference at San Fernando City Hall Auditorium. Jindal’s visit to the Prime Minister followed Rowley’s trip to India in May, where he invited business leaders to explore investment opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago.
Jindal Steel and Power is a prominent business entity in India, with significant involvement in steel, mining, power, and infrastructure. The meeting between Jindal and the Prime Minister also involved other ministers and discussed the possibilities at the Petrotrin refinery.
During the conference, Prime Minister Rowley emphasized that objections from the opposition indicated a lack of interest in positive development for Trinidad and Tobago. He dismissed allegations against Jindal, comparing them to recent charges against Boeing in the US. Rowley questioned whether it was inappropriate for him to engage in conversations with multinational energy companies for investment opportunities in the country.
Regarding the potential bid for the refinery, Rowley mentioned that no reasonable or useful proposal had been presented. He emphasized the seriousness of operating a refinery, stating that it requires substantial investment and expertise. Despite not meeting Jindal in person during a recent visit to Trinidad, Rowley expressed openness to valuable foreign direct investments from companies like Jindal.
