The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has announced that it will hold public hearings from November 24 to 26, 2025, to consider Guatemala’s request to intervene in the ongoing territorial dispute over the Sapodilla Cayes. This case initially arose three years ago when Belize filed a lawsuit against Honduras, seeking the ICJ’s affirmation of its sovereignty over the contested area. In 2024, Guatemala entered the fray, asserting that the dispute intersects with its own longstanding territorial claim against Belize, which is also pending before the ICJ. Guatemala argues that the outcome of the Belize-Honduras case could have significant implications for its claim and is therefore seeking to participate in the proceedings. The ICJ’s decision on Guatemala’s intervention could reshape the dynamics of this complex territorial conflict, drawing international attention as the hearings approach.
作者： admin
-
Belize Joins Global Climate Talks at COP 30
As the world gears up for COP 30, set to take place in Brazil from November 10 to 21, 2025, Belize is poised to play a pivotal role in the global climate dialogue. This year’s summit, themed ‘The Forest COP,’ will focus on the Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the planet’s lungs. Belize’s participation comes at a critical juncture, following the devastation wrought by Category Five Hurricane Mellisa in Jamaica, which has amplified the Caribbean’s call for urgent climate action. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center (CCCCC), emphasized the dual impact of such extreme weather events. ‘Hurricane Mellisa vividly illustrates the scientific predictions we’ve been advocating for,’ Dr. Young stated. ‘As global temperatures rise and oceans warm, the frequency and intensity of these catastrophic storms increase. This underscores the need for swift, decisive action to cut emissions and for developed nations to fulfill their commitments to provide resources for climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.’ The summit aims to shift the focus from rhetoric to tangible solutions, with Belize and other Caribbean nations advocating for stronger global cooperation to mitigate the escalating climate crisis.
-
Caribbean Calls for Urgent Climate Action at COP 30
At the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP 30), the Caribbean region has issued a pressing call for intensified global climate action. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), emphasized the urgent need for faster and more ambitious efforts to combat rising global temperatures. Speaking on behalf of CARICOM, Dr. Young highlighted the critical juncture the world has reached, with current temperatures hovering around 1.3 degrees Celsius, perilously close to the 1.5-degree threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Last year, this threshold was temporarily exceeded, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Dr. Young stressed that while the Paris Agreement’s goals remain attainable, achieving them requires unprecedented global cooperation and accelerated action. The Caribbean, a region particularly vulnerable to climate change, is advocating for heightened climate ambition to safeguard its future and mitigate the devastating impacts of global warming.
-
Belize’s Tourism Sector Holds Steady Despite U.S. Flight Chaos
Despite widespread flight cancellations and operational challenges in U.S. airports, Belize’s tourism industry remains resilient. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) faced significant issues, including air traffic control shortages and equipment failures, exacerbated by the prolonged federal government shutdown. These disruptions could have further strained Belize’s tourism sector, which already saw an 8.6% decline in overnight tourist arrivals in September. However, Efren Perez, President of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), reported no surge in hotel booking cancellations. Instead, stakeholders have proactively diversified their focus to non-U.S. markets, mitigating potential losses. Perez emphasized the importance of adapting marketing strategies and leveraging regional opportunities, such as the recent Central American Travel Market, which attracted European, South American, and Mexican tour operators. Additionally, Air Canada’s upcoming flights to Belize are expected to bolster tourism. While the current situation appears challenging, Perez remains optimistic about the sector’s ability to recover and thrive.
-
Agribusiness : Ayitika Chocolate wins 3 awards in Paris
The Haitian agribusiness company Ayitika has achieved remarkable success at the 30th edition of the Salon du Chocolat, the world’s largest chocolate fair, held in Paris from October 29 to November 2, 2025. Representing Haiti alongside Norway, Ayitika secured two prestigious ‘Gourmet’ medals from the Agency for the Promotion of Agricultural Products (AVPA) for its Dark Chocolate with Guava and Dark Chocolate with Cinnamon. These accolades were formally presented during the event, highlighting the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. Additionally, Ayitika’s ‘Kanperen-80%’ chocolate bar was awarded the Best Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Bar in the inaugural ‘Les Éclats de Chocolat’ competition, a special initiative celebrating the Salon’s 30th anniversary. This competition, organized in collaboration with Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet, recognized the most innovative, ethical, and flavorful chocolate creations. The ‘Kanperen-80%’ bar, crafted from a blend of Contamana and Amelonado cacao varieties cultivated by rural families in Haiti’s Camp-Perrin region, impressed the jury with its balanced flavors, intensity, and aromatic complexity. As a result of this recognition, Ayitika’s products will be featured at Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet in Paris in spring 2026. The company is also set to participate in the Salon du Chocolat de Montréal from November 20 to 23, 2025, further showcasing its award-winning chocolates on the global stage.
-
Salvation Army Launches Kettle Drive to Feed 1,000 Kids
The Salvation Army has officially launched its annual kettle drive in Belize City, marking the beginning of a campaign dedicated to spreading holiday cheer to those in need. This year, the organization aims to provide Christmas meals and gifts to nearly 1,000 children across Belize, while also supporting the elderly with vouchers for essential holiday purchases. Major Marc Eddy Momplaisir, the Salvation Army’s District Officer, emphasized the campaign’s mission of love, compassion, and hope, stating that all funds raised will remain within Belize to directly benefit local communities. The initiative seeks to raise $100,000, a target that fell short by 25% last year due to tighter budgets. However, Major Momplaisir remains optimistic, urging stakeholders, partners, and Belizeans to unite in achieving this goal. The first donor, career educator Maria Coyi, highlighted the importance of supporting the Salvation Army’s efforts to ensure children experience a memorable Christmas. Volunteers will be stationed at high-traffic locations throughout the holiday season, encouraging passersby to contribute to this meaningful cause.
-
Three-on-Three Madness Takes Over Civic Center
The Belize Civic Center is set to transform into a vibrant hub of athleticism and community spirit this weekend as the Belize Global Elite Academy organizes a two-day, three-on-three basketball tournament. Over three hundred young players will showcase their skills in this high-energy event, which aims to foster talent and give back to the community. Kashief Thomas, co-founder of the academy, shared his vision for the event, emphasizing its dual purpose of promoting basketball and nurturing young dreams. Thomas, a Belizean native who credits basketball for his personal and professional success, is passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation. The event will feature free meals, basketballs, jerseys, backpacks, and shoes for participants, ensuring an inclusive and celebratory atmosphere. Thomas, now a successful entrepreneur in the U.S., hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams and contribute to their communities. The tournament kicks off at 8 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, promising a weekend of excitement and camaraderie.
-
Zarah Castillo’s Inspiring Journey of Hope and Healing
In a world often overshadowed by adversity, Zarah Castillo’s story stands as a beacon of hope and determination. A young nail technician from Belize City, Zarah’s life took an unexpected turn in 2023 when a tragic accident left her with a severe spinal injury, confining her to a wheelchair. Yet, her narrative is not one of despair but of gratitude, perseverance, and an unrelenting pursuit of her dreams. Zarah aspires to become an attorney, a goal she continues to chase with unwavering resolve.
-
Politic : The OAS and CEAL join forces to support Haiti
In a landmark move to bolster economic and social progress in the Americas, the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Latin American Business Council (CEAL) have forged a strategic partnership. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the XXXVI CEAL Plenary Assembly in Washington, DC, aims to enhance public-private sector cooperation with a particular focus on Haiti. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to addressing critical areas such as education, financial inclusion, employment, and food security. CEAL President Roberto J. Zamora emphasized the significance of this alliance, stating, ‘This agreement marks a pivotal moment for a new era of collaboration. Politicians and business leaders must unite to tackle economic challenges and drive development. Haiti will be our first test case.’ OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin echoed this sentiment, describing the partnership as a milestone and expressing optimism about its potential to foster long-term relationships across the region. CEAL, a coalition of private sector leaders from 19 Latin American countries, Puerto Rico, Miami, and the Iberian Peninsula, is dedicated to promoting a ‘borderless America’ through investment, entrepreneurship, and knowledge exchange. This joint effort signals a renewed commitment to Haiti’s development amid ongoing challenges.
-
COP30 Tiptoes “Dangerously Close” to 1.5°C Threshold
As the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) unfolds in Brazil, Caribbean nations are sounding the alarm over the escalating climate crisis. The summit, themed “The Forest COP,” emphasizes the urgent need to protect the Amazon and combat global warming. With global temperatures already at 1.3°C, the world is perilously close to breaching the 1.5°C threshold, a critical limit set by the Paris Agreement. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, highlighted the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica as a stark reminder of the Caribbean’s vulnerability. “Warmer oceans and rising temperatures are fueling monstrous hurricanes that our infrastructure cannot withstand,” he warned. Dr. Young stressed that small nations lack the resources to build resilience alone and called on developed countries to fulfill their promises of climate finance and support. CARICOM nations are demanding tangible actions, including early-warning systems and resilient infrastructure, rather than mere rhetoric. Dr. Young emphasized the need for accelerated global efforts, urging the international community to act with greater ambition to mitigate the climate crisis before it’s too late.