In a significant diplomatic move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has designated His Excellency Mohamed Issa Abushahab as its new ambassador to Grenada. The official credential presentation ceremony is scheduled for November 18, 2025, at the residence of Grenada’s Governor-General, Dame Cecile La Grenade, in Point Salines. This event marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations between the two nations, which were established in 1975. Currently, Ambassador-designate Abushahab serves as the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, where he plays a crucial role in international discussions on peace and security. He assumed this position in April 2024, succeeding Lana Nusseibeh, who also held the non-resident ambassadorship to Grenada. Grenada holds a unique position in its relationship with the UAE, being the first member of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) to open a consulate in the UAE in June 2020. The UAE has been a key partner in Grenada’s development, notably funding the reconstruction of the Parliament building and supporting renewable energy projects like the Limlair Solar PV Hybrid initiative in Carriacou through the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund. Additionally, several UAE nationals have obtained Grenadian citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, further deepening the ties between the two countries. The UAE, a federation of seven emirates founded in 1971, continues to expand its global influence through strategic partnerships and investments.
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Applications now open for the Commonwealth shared scholarship initiative
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) has officially launched the application process for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Initiative, a flagship postgraduate program under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP). This initiative, part of the UK Government’s global scholarship framework, seeks to empower talented individuals from developing Commonwealth nations by enabling them to pursue advanced degrees in the UK. The program aims to cultivate future leaders and innovators who can drive sustainable development in their home countries while strengthening international partnerships. The scholarship underscores the UK’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth community and its development goals. The initiative targets high-achieving postgraduate students from Least Developed and middle-income Commonwealth countries, including those affected by conflict or instability. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic potential and a commitment to leveraging their education for national development. The scholarship covers one year of full-time Master’s studies in the UK, with participating universities responsible for covering living expenses. Candidates must apply directly through their chosen UK institutions, which conduct initial screenings before the CSC makes final selections. Eligibility criteria include citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country, permanent residency, and a strong academic record. Applicants must also prove financial need and meet specific documentation requirements. The application deadline is December 9, 2025, and recipients are required to commence studies in September 2026. The scholarship is exclusively for full-time study, and concurrent enrollment in other courses is prohibited. Prospective students must also secure admission to their chosen UK university program, adhering to institutional deadlines and requirements.
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Trump Says U.S. Lacks Talent
In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump has publicly defended the H-1B visa program, despite his administration’s historically stringent immigration policies. During a recent interview on Fox News with host Laura Ingraham, Trump argued that the United States lacks the domestic talent necessary to maintain its global competitiveness. This stance has sparked significant backlash from his political base, particularly among those who advocate for stricter immigration controls. When questioned about the potential impact of foreign visas on American wages, Trump emphasized the necessity of importing skilled workers. ‘You also do have to bring in talent,’ he stated. Ingraham countered by asserting that the U.S. has ample homegrown talent, to which Trump replied, ‘No, you don’t … you don’t have certain talents, and people have to learn.’ He further explained that certain specialized jobs cannot be filled by unemployed Americans, using the example of missile manufacturing. Trump’s comments come at a time when his administration is implementing measures to tighten immigration rules, including a proposed $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas. These visas, which allow skilled foreign professionals to work in the U.S. for up to six years, are particularly prevalent in the technology and engineering sectors. The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who took to social media to express her belief that American workers are ‘talented, creative, intelligent’ and should not be ‘replaced by foreign labor.’ Trump responded by accusing Greene of having ‘lost her way’ and ‘catering to the other side.’
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Visit of Cuba’s Parliament President to Angola closes with tributes
In a significant diplomatic gesture, the head of the State Council of Cuba, accompanied by a high-level delegation, paid homage to Angola’s first president, Antonio Agostinho Neto, at his memorial early Friday morning. The visit coincided with Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence, marking a pivotal moment in the shared history of the two nations. The Cuban leader, Lazo, emphasized the deep fraternal bonds between Cuba and Angola, rooted in their joint struggle against colonialism, apartheid, and imperialism. He highlighted the enduring friendship between Fidel Castro and Agostinho Neto, which continues to inspire current generations to uphold their legacy of solidarity and cooperation. The delegation also honored Jose Eduardo Dos Santos, Angola’s long-serving leader from 1979 to 2017, and commemorated Raul Diaz-Argüelles, the first head of Cuba’s military mission in Angola, at his burial site in Alto de las Cruces. The tribute concluded with an exchange between the Cuban delegation and the President of Angola’s Parliament, reaffirming the commitment to strengthen bilateral ties.
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Simons kondigt verscherpte voorwaarden aan voor gronduitgifte
In a significant policy shift, Suriname’s government has announced stricter criteria for land allocation, as revealed by President Jennifer Simons during the first round of the General Political Considerations (APB) in the National Assembly on Thursday. The President emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive revision of the land allocation policy to ensure transparency and accountability in land use.
Simons highlighted that the government must ensure land is utilized for its designated purposes, whether for industrial activities, housing, agriculture, or social projects. She acknowledged that past practices often allocated land with the hope of productive use, but these expectations frequently fell short. To address this, the government is drafting legislative amendments, set to take effect in 2026, which will clearly define permissible land uses and enforce stricter compliance measures.
Under the new framework, applicants will be required to demonstrate their readiness to execute proposed projects. Simons stressed that land allocated for business ventures must come with binding obligations. If no tangible results are achieved within two to three years, the land rights will be automatically revoked.
The President also pointed out Suriname’s unique regional position, noting the country’s vast unused agricultural lands despite its abundant available land. She argued that utilizing previously allocated agricultural areas could boost agro-production without encroaching on forests.
However, the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB) faces significant administrative challenges, including illegal land allocations and prolonged delays in processing applications. Simons underscored the necessity of a thorough policy overhaul to address these systemic issues and ensure efficient land management.
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Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority holds job fair next week
The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) is set to host a Job Fair at the old terminal of the V.C. Bird International Airport next Tuesday. The event, themed ‘Connecting Talent to Opportunity,’ aims to provide aspiring professionals with a gateway into the dynamic aviation sector. Scheduled from 9 am to 3 pm, the fair will showcase a variety of roles, including Customer Service Representatives, IT Technicians, Airport Operations Centre Officers, Aviation Security Officers, and skilled trades such as Electricians, Plumbers, AC Technicians, Mobile Mechanics, and Grounds Technicians. Prospective candidates are encouraged to bring essential documents, including a government-issued photo ID, educational and professional certificates, a résumé, and proof of work eligibility in Antigua and Barbuda. The ABAA emphasizes that having these materials ready will streamline the registration process and minimize delays. Additionally, free parking will be provided for registered attendees in the long-term parking lot, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
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PM Briceño Congratulates Bishop Wright on Historic Archbishop Appointment
Prime Minister John Briceño has extended heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Philip S. Wright on his historic election as Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. In an official statement, Briceño hailed this achievement as a significant milestone, describing it as “a moment of pride and distinction for the Anglican Community in Belize and the broader Caribbean region.”
Bishop Wright, who has served as the head of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, now becomes the second Belizean to assume this prestigious role since 1934. Reflecting on his appointment, Wright expressed profound humility, calling it “overwhelming” and emphasizing his eagerness to continue his lifelong dedication to the church. “You never imagined a day like this would come. It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister’s statement further highlighted Wright’s influential role in fostering collaboration between the church and state on pivotal issues such as education, social development, and justice. Recognized for his spiritual depth and leadership, Wright’s elevation has been widely celebrated across the nation.
Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton also joined in congratulating Bishop Wright on Tuesday, praising his “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.” This appointment marks a historic moment for Belize and the Anglican Church, underscoring Wright’s enduring commitment to his faith and community.
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Border Meeting Draws Criticism for Ignoring Narco Concerns
On November 14, 2025, officials from Belize and Mexico’s Quintana Roo convened in the Corozal Free Zone to discuss bilateral cooperation on trade, border management, and environmental challenges. The meeting, attended by high-ranking delegates including Belize’s Minister Thea Ramirez and CEO Narda Garcia, focused on issues such as gender-based violence, beach erosion in Chetumal Bay, and the introduction of a special border pass for residents of Mexico’s southern states. Additionally, both parties agreed to update key economic agreements, with Mexican officials highlighting the potential for Belize’s ports to reduce shipping costs for Quintana Roo businesses and facilitate access to CARICOM markets.
However, the meeting drew sharp criticism from Belizean citizens, particularly on social media, for its failure to address the escalating narco-trafficking threats in the region. Recent incidents, including an alleged execution attempt on a Corozal Free Zone businessman linked to Mexican cartels, have heightened concerns. Many questioned the absence of police representation and the delegation’s focus, with one commenter labeling the event as a ‘family trip’ rather than a serious diplomatic engagement. The oversight has sparked debates about the priorities of regional cooperation and the urgent need to tackle organized crime.
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BYD launched in Saint Lucia, set to feature at EV Lucian Car Expo
JQ Motors has officially introduced BYD, one of the world’s leading electric vehicle (EV) brands, to Saint Lucia, marking a significant milestone in the island’s automotive landscape. The October 25 launch event showcased BYD’s diverse lineup, featuring both full battery electric and plug-in hybrid models, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable and technologically advanced transportation.
Brand Manager Neron Joseph emphasized BYD’s pioneering role in the industry, stating, ‘The automotive sector is undergoing a once-in-a-century transformation, and BYD is at the forefront of this revolution. Their mission, encapsulated in the slogan ‘Build Your Dreams,’ is to create a cleaner, greener future through innovation.’ Joseph highlighted BYD’s origins as a battery manufacturer, which has positioned the brand as a leader in EV technology. ‘Their expertise in energy storage is the foundation of their success in the electric vehicle market,’ he explained.
The event also unveiled BYD’s cutting-edge innovations, including the Blade Battery and e-Platform 3.0, which offer enhanced safety, durability, and efficiency. New models such as the Sealion 7, a full electric all-wheel-drive SUV, and the Yuan Pro, a compact and affordable EV, were introduced to the local market. Joseph also showcased the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, demonstrating its practicality by powering the event’s DJ setup with a BYD Shark pickup truck.
Gordon Charles, Group CEO of JQ Charles Group of Companies, described the launch as a transformative moment for JQ Motors. ‘The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, and legacy automakers must adapt or risk obsolescence. BYD is leading this charge,’ he said. Charles emphasized that securing the BYD dealership rights reflects JQ Motors’ strategic commitment to sustainability and innovation.
For those who missed the launch, BYD models will be on display at the EV Lucian Car Show on November 15 at the Caribbean Cinemas car park, offering the public an opportunity to explore the vehicles and engage with JQ Motors representatives.
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Cummings wants Grace to say if she got 2 salaries while on contract
Daniel Cummings, Chairman of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), has intensified scrutiny over the EC$144,000 one-year contract awarded to Grace Walters, a Hospital Administrator and Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Windward. Cummings raised critical questions about the contract’s timeline and Walters’ dual roles, demanding clarity on whether she continued to receive her EC$8,000 monthly salary as a hospital administrator while simultaneously benefiting from the EC$12,000 monthly consultancy contract. Speaking at an NDP campaign event in Owia, Cummings challenged Walters to disclose if she was paid EC$20,000 monthly from the Treasury until August. He further questioned the transparency of the contract’s awarding process, asking whether it was publicly tendered or authorized by the Public Service Commission. Walters, a first-time candidate aiming to retain North Windward for the ULP, defended the contract, stating it is common for public sector workers to receive such agreements. She revealed she had taken no-pay leave to contest the election, emphasizing her qualifications for the consultancy role. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, ULP leader, countered by referencing Cummings’ own past contract with the Central Water and Sewerage Authority. Cummings, however, stood by his criticisms, accusing the ULP of long-standing corruption and defending his integrity. The controversy has sparked debates about accountability and transparency in government contracts, with both parties trading accusations ahead of the upcoming elections.