Carib Scope

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  • Dominican Republic and Paraguay seal agreement to strengthen air connectivity

    Dominican Republic and Paraguay seal agreement to strengthen air connectivity

    In a landmark move to enhance bilateral air connectivity and tourism, the Dominican Republic and Paraguay inked a new Air Services Agreement on the inaugural day of the ICAO World Conference on Air Services Agreement Negotiations (ICAN2025). The historic signing took place in Santo Domingo, marking the first time the conference has been hosted in the Dominican capital. The agreement was formalized by Nelson Mendoza Rolón, President of Paraguay’s National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics, and Héctor Porcella, President of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (JAC).

    This pact is a significant milestone in fostering closer ties between the two nations, particularly in the realms of tourism and economic growth. The deal coincides with Paraguay’s ongoing negotiations with Arajet, a Dominican airline, to launch direct flights from Asunción to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. These flights are expected to commence operations by early 2026, further solidifying the partnership. Anguie Duarte de Melillo, Paraguay’s Secretary of Tourism, emphasized the shared vision of both countries to leverage tourism as a catalyst for economic development.

    Running from November 10 to 14, ICAN2025 has convened aviation authorities from across the globe to expand international air transport networks. The Dominican Republic is seizing this opportunity to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. During the conference, the country is slated to hold 18 bilateral meetings and sign additional Air Service Agreements (ASAs) with Oman, El Salvador, Greece, and Paraguay. Preliminary discussions are also underway with Eswatini, Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden), Zimbabwe, and Benin.

    Officials underscored that these initiatives align with the Dominican Republic’s broader strategy to enhance its global connectivity and tourism appeal, cementing its role as a key player in the international aviation landscape.

  • Guyana gov’t, U.S. company to build data centre at Wales

    Guyana gov’t, U.S. company to build data centre at Wales

    In a groundbreaking move to position Guyana as a leader in digital innovation, the Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and U.S.-based Cerebras Systems have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to construct a state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) data center in Wales, Guyana. The facility, with a capacity of up to 100MW, will be powered by Cerebras’ advanced CS-3 AI supercomputers and infrastructure, catering to international demand while fostering local economic growth and technological advancement. This initiative is a cornerstone of Guyana’s ambition to become an AI-first nation and a regional hub for digital transformation. The project will also include training programs, research initiatives, and partnerships with international universities to upskill Guyanese talent and ensure widespread community benefits. The data center, strategically located near the Gas-to-Energy plant, will anchor a broader vision for digital prosperity, including education hubs, startup incubators, and advanced research centers. The partnership has already attracted interest from global players in AI, cloud computing, and infrastructure, with additional collaborations under discussion. Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali emphasized that this project is a declaration of the nation’s ambition to lead in frontier technologies and empower its citizens to drive global innovation. Cerebras CEO Andrew Feldman highlighted that this collaboration is a key part of the company’s Cerebras for Nations initiative, aimed at helping governments accelerate their sovereign AI capabilities. EY Global Partner Jay Persaud, a member of the Guyanese diaspora, expressed excitement about the transformative potential of this partnership, which promises to inspire the next generation and catalyze economic diversification.

  • Look beyond IMF as access to climate finance tightens – senator

    Look beyond IMF as access to climate finance tightens – senator

    Barbados is taking decisive steps to diversify its development financing sources and reduce its dependence on traditional international lenders, as global climate finance becomes increasingly constrained. Senator Shantal Munro-Knight, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, emphasized the urgency of this shift during a Senate session on Wednesday. The Senate debated the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) Bill, which formalizes Barbados’ full membership in CAF by replacing the Latin American Development Bank Act. Munro-Knight highlighted that while some global institutions are retreating from climate financing, CAF offers a regional alternative that is flexible, responsive, and tailored to the needs of small states like Barbados. She pointed out that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is being urged to return to its core mission, potentially reducing its focus on climate financing, which poses challenges for middle-income, climate-vulnerable nations. Munro-Knight stressed the need for Barbados to proactively build partnerships and buffers to mitigate external shocks. She noted a decline in official development assistance (ODA) to Latin America and the Caribbean, with private capital primarily flowing into energy projects, leaving critical sectors like health, education, and housing underfunded. CAF, she argued, understands the region’s realities and provides a platform for Caribbean nations to shape solutions collectively. Under the new legislation, Barbados will acquire 34,834 Series C shares in CAF, valued at $494.6 million, enabling access to financing worth 18 times that amount over 15 years. This investment will transition Barbados to full membership, granting it a seat on CAF’s board of directors and enhancing its influence in regional decision-making. CAF has already demonstrated its value as a development partner, approving $700,000 in technical assistance for the Barbados Water Authority and funding infrastructure projects on the South Coast. Additionally, CAF has supported cultural initiatives like CARIFESTA and heritage projects, including the digitization of national archives and the development of a heritage district. The phased investment over 15 years will allow Barbados to manage its financial commitments while gaining immediate access to development resources, safeguarding its fiscal space and strengthening its resilience to climate and economic shocks.

  • Family of Irish woman killed on George Washington Avenue demands justice

    Family of Irish woman killed on George Washington Avenue demands justice

    The tragic death of Claire Paula Cullen, a 40-year-old Irish woman, has sent shockwaves through her family and the community. Cullen was fatally struck by a vehicle on George Washington Avenue in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on the morning of November 10, 2025. The incident occurred as she was crossing the avenue, en route to attend her brother’s wedding to Erika Peña, which was scheduled for the same day. Instead of a joyous celebration, the day turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy. The driver, identified as Héctor Julio Taveras Báez, fled the scene immediately after the collision, leaving Cullen fatally injured. Her family has since expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation, noting that her personal belongings have yet to be returned by authorities. As they prepare to repatriate her body to Ireland for burial, the family is demanding justice and accountability, emphasizing that Cullen’s young son has been left orphaned by this devastating event. They are urging Dominican officials to ensure that the case is thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrator is held responsible.

  • Elections : «Democracy cannot exist without women» (video)

    Elections : «Democracy cannot exist without women» (video)

    On November 12, 2025, Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé officially inaugurated a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness, mobilizing, and training women for inclusive elections. The event, orchestrated by the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP), saw the participation of prominent figures including Ms. Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women and Women’s Rights; Presidential Advisor Frinel Joseph; CEP President Jacques Desrosiers; and UN Women Representative Goretti Ndwayo, among others. The Prime Minister emphasized the critical role of women in bolstering Haiti’s democracy, highlighting his administration’s dedication to fostering political equality between genders. The electoral decree includes financial incentives totaling up to three billion gourdes to encourage women’s active participation in all electoral phases. Significant progress has already been made, with 40% of CEP’s departmental and municipal electoral staff being women. Additionally, political parties are now required to include a minimum of 30% female candidates on legislative lists, with a 25% funding bonus for organizations that elect more than 50% women. Minister Saint Jean lauded the initiative, stressing that democracy cannot thrive without women’s full involvement. She underscored the importance of dismantling social, economic, and institutional barriers to women’s political participation and highlighted key advancements in the 2025 electoral decree, such as financial incentives for gender parity and increased public funding for parties that elect women or individuals with disabilities. She also emphasized the need to combat all forms of electoral violence to ensure a safe and inclusive electoral environment.

  • Budna Case Before DPP; It Exposes Gaps in Law Enforcement

    Budna Case Before DPP; It Exposes Gaps in Law Enforcement

    The Joseph Budna abduction case, which began with a Facebook Live broadcast on August 22, 2025, has escalated into an international scandal, revealing significant flaws in law enforcement. Budna, known for his outspoken social media presence, went live from Orange Walk Town, directly in front of the police station, before being abducted by three men and forced into a sky-blue SUV. Witnesses reported the incident occurred just steps away from the station. The following day, photos emerged from Guatemala showing Budna in custody, raising questions about how he was transported across the border so swiftly. In a leaked audio clip, Budna claimed that masked men, allegedly police officers, assaulted him, taped his mouth, and transported him to Arenal Village. Three weeks later, no suspects have been arrested, and the investigation has been plagued by missing surveillance footage, incomplete reports, and growing public outrage. Prime Minister Briceño criticized the initial police report as ‘unsatisfactory,’ leading to Commissioner Rosado being placed on leave amid suspicions of police involvement. The case file has now been handed to Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, who described it as ‘less than nothing,’ indicating significant deficiencies. The DPP’s office is currently reviewing the file, but no arrests are imminent, leaving the public with more questions than answers.

  • BDF Soldier, Cop Found Guilty in 2021 Escobar Shooting Cover-Up

    BDF Soldier, Cop Found Guilty in 2021 Escobar Shooting Cover-Up

    In a landmark ruling, a Belize Defense Force (BDF) soldier and a police officer have been found guilty of obstructing justice in the 2021 shooting death of BDF soldier Jessie Escobar. The verdict was delivered on November 12, 2025, in the Magistrate’s Court. BDF Private Ramon Alberto Alcoser and Police Corporal Juan Carlos Moralez were convicted of perverting the course of justice by providing false statements about the events of September 5, 2021, in Santa Familia, where Escobar was fatally shot. The Senior Magistrate determined that their accounts were inconsistent with the evidence, despite their claims of trauma and pressure. Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, who led the prosecution, argued that the defendants deliberately misled investigators. The magistrate concurred, stating that their statements were fabricated and given while the events were still fresh. Both men were remanded to Belize Central Prison and are scheduled for sentencing on December 4. Defense attorney Marcel Cardona expressed shock at the verdict but respected the decision. Vidal emphasized the importance of the ruling, highlighting the need for accountability among law enforcement officers. The case underscores the critical role of evidence in ensuring justice, particularly in cases involving alleged misconduct by those in positions of authority.

  • DJ Khris Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Veteran Cop

    DJ Khris Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Veteran Cop

    In a tragic incident that shook the community, Police Constable Arcenio Cus, a 38-year-old veteran officer with nearly two decades of service, lost his life in a hit-and-run accident on July 28, 2025. The incident occurred on the Philip Goldson Highway near Mile Six, as Cus was returning home to Belize City after completing his shift at the Ladyville Police Station. Riding his motorcycle, he was struck by a black vehicle that fled the scene without stopping. Despite being rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH), Cus succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. More than three months later, a significant breakthrough emerged in the case. On November 11, 2025, Khris Rosado, a 34-year-old prominent DJ and businessman, was formally charged with Manslaughter by Negligence, Causing Death by Careless Conduct, and Failing to Stop and Report an Accident. Rosado had voluntarily surrendered to authorities the day after the crash. Known for his contributions to the music and business sectors, Rosado now faces serious legal repercussions. Cus, remembered as the ‘Most Outstanding Field Training Officer,’ leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service. The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the need for accountability and justice in such devastating incidents.

  • Five-Year Schengen Visas Now Available to Belizeans

    Five-Year Schengen Visas Now Available to Belizeans

    In a landmark development for Belizean travelers, the European Commission has approved a significant visa facilitation agreement for Belizean nationals holding biometric passports. This new arrangement allows Belizeans to obtain five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas, eliminating the need for frequent reapplications. The Schengen Area, comprising 29 European countries with no internal border controls, will now be more accessible to Belizean citizens, whether they hold regular, official, or diplomatic passports. Applications can be processed at Schengen embassies in neighboring countries such as Guatemala or Mexico. This policy marks the most generous visa framework the European Union has extended to any third country, underscoring the robust diplomatic ties between Belize and the EU. Belize’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Francis Fonseca, confirmed the news, emphasizing the potential benefits for tourism, business, education, and cross-border family connections. The move also reflects the EU’s confidence in Belizean travelers, who are not perceived as a security risk. This development is expected to foster stronger cultural and economic exchanges between Belize and Europe.

  • Church and Business Senators Back Migrant Pact

    Church and Business Senators Back Migrant Pact

    In a surprising turn of events, Belizean Senators Kevin Herrera and Louis Wade have cast their votes in favor of the Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States, sparking widespread debate and speculation. The agreement, which designates Belize as a ‘safe third country,’ mandates that Central American migrants denied entry into the U.S. under former President Trump’s stringent immigration policies can now seek asylum in Belize. This decision has stirred political circles, particularly due to Herrera’s unexpected support, given his previous stance on sovereignty and immigration challenges. Church Senator Louis Wade, however, remained steadfast in his endorsement, emphasizing the humanitarian and logical merits of the pact. Herrera’s sudden shift has raised questions about the underlying motivations and timing of his decision. Critics argue that Belize risks becoming a ‘logistical backwater’ for U.S. immigration issues, while supporters highlight the nation’s capacity to provide refuge. The vote underscores the delicate balance between national sovereignty and international cooperation in addressing migration crises.