Verón-Punta Cana has initiated a comprehensive effort to address its persistent traffic congestion issues. Pascual Cruz Méndez, Director of the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transportation (Digesett), led a detailed diagnostic tour in the municipal district to identify solutions. Accompanied by Mayor Ramón Antonio Ramírez, Intrant Regional Director Félix de la Rosa, Igor Souza of Intraf, Ernesto Veloz, President of Asoleste, and Alejandro Piñeyro, Deputy Director of Planning for Digesett, the team utilized drone technology to assess critical congestion points. The visit aimed to define coordinated actions involving municipal authorities, the private sector, and national mobility agencies to enhance traffic flow and road safety. The initiative underscores the urgency of implementing immediate and sustainable solutions in this bustling tourist hub. Following the tour, Cruz Méndez met with Frank Rainieri and Frank Elías Rainieri, President and CEO of the Punta Cana Group, to discuss mobility and road safety strategies. The Rainieris commended the proactive approach and stressed the need for improved road safety awareness and infrastructure. In recognition of their contributions, Digesett awarded the Rainieri family its official pin, highlighting their commitment to regional traffic safety.
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News : Zapping…
In a significant move, the United States has announced a reduction in its annual contribution to the United Nations, slashing its $1.3 billion commitment to $682 million for the current fiscal year. A portion of this funding, $85 million, is specifically allocated to the future United Nations Support Office in Haiti (BANUH) and the Gang Repression Force (FRG), aimed at addressing the escalating gang violence in the region. This decision comes amidst heightened security concerns in Haiti, where the US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, has issued strong statements against gang leaders destabilizing the region. Concurrently, military cooperation between Haiti and France has been a focal point of discussions, with Haitian Defense Minister Jean-Michel Moïse and French officials meeting to strategize on regional security and stability. In a related development, Haitian customs officials seized a cache of suspicious military-style equipment, including anti-drone devices, raising further questions about the security landscape. On a more optimistic note, Haitian Secretary of Commerce and Industry James Monazard expressed confidence in the renewal of the HOPE/HELP Act, a crucial piece of legislation for economic cooperation with the US, set to expire later this year.
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In Cuba, the cry for Palestine is always heard
Cuba has once again raised its voice in solidarity with Palestine, condemning the ongoing violence and calling for peace in the region. The island nation, known for its unwavering commitment to justice and the defense of life, has made it clear that it will not be swayed by those who align themselves with the powerful at the expense of human dignity. The recent escalation of violence in Gaza, marked by the devastating impact of Zionist aggression, has left millions of innocent men, women, children, and elderly people in a state of despair and fear. The Cuban government and its people have expressed their profound sorrow over the suffering of their Palestinian brothers and sisters, emphasizing that shared pain transcends borders. In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, thousands of Cubans gathered at the José Martí Anti-Imperialist Tribune in Havana to demand an end to the bloodshed and to call for the restoration of dignity to the Palestinian people. Across the country, acts of solidarity have been organized, driven by the belief that true justice in the region can only be achieved when the cycle of violence and hatred is broken. Cuba’s stance reflects its long-standing principle that silence in the face of injustice is complicity, and it continues to advocate for peace and human rights on the global stage.
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Scarves and furrows, for a better Cuba
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel embarked on a significant tour across the municipalities of Ciego de Ávila and Sancti Spíritus on October 8, 2025, engaging in both educational and agricultural activities. The day began with a heartfelt ceremony at the Antonio Maceo primary school in Chambas, where Díaz-Canel participated in the traditional placement of blue scarves on first graders, symbolizing their entry into the Moncadista Pioneers. The school, boasting 100% teacher coverage and strong academic results, exemplifies Cuba’s commitment to education despite economic challenges. The President emphasized the importance of nurturing young minds as the foundation of the nation’s future. Following the school visit, Díaz-Canel inspected the Nguyen Van Troi Sand Production Plant, where he discussed the production of materials essential for infrastructure projects, including photovoltaic parks and housing. He highlighted the need for innovation and workforce stability amid the country’s energy crisis. The tour continued to the El Tesoro farm, a major rice producer, where Díaz-Canel underscored the goal of achieving self-sufficiency in rice to reduce imports and bolster the agricultural sector. He also visited the La Candelaria farm, which produces preserves and biofertilizers, and the Pina collection center, a key player in hydrocarbon extraction. In Sancti Spíritus, the President visited La Belkys Farm, focusing on crop diversification and food security. The day concluded with a visit to a sugarcane field and a machinery workshop, where Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of agricultural machinery in supporting Cuba’s sugar industry. Throughout the tour, the President reiterated the government’s commitment to education, innovation, and agricultural self-sufficiency, drawing parallels to the legacy of Che Guevara in fostering a stronger and more humane Cuba.
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Acts of solidarity with Palestine to be held in Cuba
On Thursday, October 9, 2025, Cuba will witness a series of solidarity events in support of Palestine, reflecting the enduring bond between the two nations. The main event in Havana will take place at the José Martí Anti-Imperialist Tribune, commencing at 7:30 a.m. and will be broadcast live on Cuban television as part of the ‘Buenos Días’ program. This initiative underscores Cuba’s unwavering condemnation of what it describes as the Israeli genocide against Palestinians, a crisis that continues to evoke global outrage due to the escalating violence and humanitarian suffering. The historical ties between Cuba and Palestine, rooted in the leadership of the late Commander-in-Chief, have evolved into a profound connection between their peoples. These events serve as a reminder of Cuba’s commitment to advocating for justice and peace in the region.
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Wijnerman: Wetswijziging is juridische reparatie, geen vrijbrief voor meer leningen
In a significant legislative move, Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Adelien Wijnerman, has underscored the necessity of amending the State Debt Law. The revision, passed with a unanimous 36 votes in the National Assembly, aims to realign the law with the country’s current financial realities rather than facilitate additional borrowing. Minister Wijnerman emphasized that the amendment is a legal correction, enabling the government to manage existing debts more effectively. She clarified that the adjustment is not a carte blanche for increasing debt but a structured approach to address financial obligations.
As of August 2025, Suriname’s total state debt stands at approximately SRD 145 billion, equivalent to 98% of its GDP—well above the legal threshold of 60%. Without this amendment, any new loans or refinancing of existing debts would constitute a formal violation of the law. The temporary measure allows the debt ceiling to be exceeded until the end of 2027, providing the government with the necessary leeway to meet its commitments, particularly in social sectors, infrastructure, tourism, and other productive areas.
The revised law mandates the government to submit an annual state debt plan alongside the budget, detailing loans, repayments, restructurings, and associated risks. Minister Wijnerman assured that the National Assembly retains its oversight role, with annual approval of the debt plan ensuring parliamentary control. She also addressed Suriname’s heavy international obligations, including a debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) amounting to 390% of the country’s General Resource Account.
Regarding the restructuring of Oppenheimer bonds, Wijnerman noted that repayment obligations have been deferred to 2026–2028, coinciding with the expected influx of oil revenues. However, she warned that Suriname will still face annual payments of nearly USD 200 million in interest and principal before the oil income materializes. The restructuring also introduced a Value Recovery Instrument (VRI), now valued at USD 374 million, with total costs estimated at USD 1.9 billion.
Since assuming office in July 2025, the current administration has refrained from taking on new loans, focusing instead on stabilizing debt management and improving revenue and expenditure frameworks. Ongoing projects, such as a USD 25 million Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) loan for aviation, were approved earlier and are now being executed. The government is also developing a restructuring strategy for major loans to ensure medium-term debt sustainability.
Reforms within the tax and customs departments aim to enhance revenue collection, transparency, and capacity. Minister Wijnerman announced plans to consolidate the State Debt Law, incorporating modern insights and clear norms to provide a stable legal framework. She concluded with a call for discipline and realism, stressing that the law alone will not resolve Suriname’s financial challenges. The ultimate solution lies in boosting production, exports, and the income base to achieve financial sovereignty.
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7th International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress gains strong support in the Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo is set to host the seventh International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress from October 22 to 23, 2025, at the Marriott Piantini Hotel. Organized by the Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS) in collaboration with AF Comunicación Estratégica, the event has garnered significant backing from national and international entities in health, tourism, and investment sectors. This congress has emerged as a pivotal platform for advancing medical tourism in the Caribbean. Dr. Alejandro Cambiaso, ADTS president, underscored the Dominican Republic’s state-of-the-art hospital infrastructure, international certifications, and secure environment for global patients, positioning the country as a leader in health and wellness tourism. Amelia Reyes Mora, president of AF Comunicación Estratégica and ADTS vice president, emphasized the importance of enhancing international accreditations, building strategic partnerships, and delivering exceptional patient experiences to bolster the nation’s reputation as a premier medical tourism destination. Previous editions of the congress attracted over 800 participants and 70 exhibitors from countries such as Canada, the United States, India, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, and various Caribbean nations. The event also enjoyed support from more than 110 sponsors, including hospitals, insurance firms, banks, resorts, and technology providers. Key endorsements come from institutions like the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR), the Association of Hotels and Tourism (Asonahores), PUCMM, the Dominican Institute for Quality (Indocal), and the Superintendence of the Securities Market (SIMV). Media partners such as Listín Diario, Dominican Today, Revista Mercado, and MediHealth ensure extensive coverage. The congress aims to showcase the Dominican Republic’s competitive edge in sustainable development, investment, innovation, and high-quality health services, reinforcing its commitment to becoming a regional leader in medical tourism. For details on registration and sponsorship, visit https://congresoadts.com or call (809) 567-2663.
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UK increases available financing to Guyana; Ali eyes major infrastructural projects
The United Kingdom has significantly increased its financial commitment to Guyana, raising the available financing through its Export Finance (UKEF) agency from £2.1 billion to £3 billion. This move, announced on October 8, 2025, underscores the UK’s confidence in Guyana’s economic trajectory and fiscal sustainability, while also deepening the bilateral relationship between the two nations. President Irfaan Ali highlighted that the funds will be channeled into transformative infrastructure projects, including the extension of the Linden to Lethem all-weather road, the development of a deep-water port in Berbice, and modernization initiatives in the health and energy sectors. The Berbice port, a public-private venture, is expected to serve as a strategic gateway for northern Brazil, enhancing regional trade and connectivity. Additionally, plans for a second gas-to-energy project are underway, with the aim of integrating these developments into a new industrial hub. The announcement was made during a meeting between President Ali, a UKEF delegation, and the UK’s Deputy Trade Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean. The British High Commission emphasized that this support aligns with Guyana’s accelerated infrastructural development and its emergence as a key investment destination. Private sector leaders, including Gerry Gouveia Jr., Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, welcomed the increased financing, noting its potential to foster local economic diversification, capacity building, and international partnerships. Dr. Clinton Urling, Secretary of the Private Sector Commission, also highlighted the opportunities for collaboration between Guyanese and UK firms, emphasizing the importance of financing for private sector growth and expansion. The Guyanese delegation included key ministers, reflecting the government’s commitment to leveraging this financial boost for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
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Ras John says Bing invited him on Boom; nobody paid him
In a recent political controversy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, landscaper and activist Aster ‘Ras John’ John has refuted claims by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves that he was paid to appear on Boom FM’s OMG programme. John, a former supporter of Gonsalves’ Unity Labour Party (ULP), made headlines in August for his critical remarks about MP Saboto Caesar’s management of the agricultural sector. Gonsalves later alleged that both John and the radio station were compensated for the appearance, a claim John vehemently denies.
John stated that he was invited by the show’s host, Dwight ‘Bing’ Joseph, a personal friend, and did not receive any payment. He explained that his appearance was prompted by a public statement he made at a UWI Global Campus event, where he criticized Caesar’s handling of agriculture. Joseph confirmed that neither John nor lawyer Jomo Thomas, who also appears on the show, paid for their segments.
The controversy deepened when Thomas, a former ULP candidate and Speaker of the House of Assembly, threatened legal action against Gonsalves for suggesting that China was involved in efforts to unseat the ULP government. Thomas denied any involvement in such efforts and challenged Gonsalves’ claims as defamatory and politically motivated. He accused the Prime Minister of stifling dissent and resorting to desperate tactics to maintain power.
Thomas also addressed Joseph directly during his commentary, emphasizing that he had never paid for his appearances or facilitated John’s. He criticized Gonsalves for his intolerance of criticism and accused him of damaging the political discourse in St. Vincent. Thomas announced that he had instructed his lawyers to send a pre-action letter to Gonsalves, signaling potential legal repercussions for the Prime Minister’s statements.
John, meanwhile, reiterated his long-standing opposition to the ULP, citing dissatisfaction with the government’s agricultural policies since 2015. He emphasized that his criticisms were driven by a desire for the country’s progress, not financial gain. The ongoing dispute highlights the growing political tensions in St. Vincent as the ULP faces increasing scrutiny and opposition.
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GPL fast-track upgrade with Dom Rep’s InterEnergy two-year contract
In a landmark move to modernize its energy infrastructure, Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) has entered into a two-year contract with the Dominican Republic’s InterEnergy Group. The $15.8 million agreement, signed on October 8, 2025, aims to accelerate the transformation of Guyana’s electricity grid, enhance reliability, and advance the country’s transition to a smart grid system. The contract was awarded through a sole-sourced formula, bypassing the initially selected Canadian firm Method4, which later withdrew from the bid. The signing ceremony, attended by key stakeholders including GPL’s Executive Management Head Kesh Nandlall and InterEnergy Chairman Rolando González Bunster, marked a significant step in strengthening regional ties. Under the agreement, InterEnergy will provide supervisory, engineering, and project management consultancy services, ensuring technical compliance, timely execution, and the integration of smart technologies. The partnership also includes technical advisory services for the operation and maintenance of generation assets, audits, and recommendations for improved reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, InterEnergy will lead smart grid integration, conduct technical gap analyses, and develop cost-effective expansion plans. The Guyana government has assured that no GPL employees will lose their jobs as a result of this collaboration. Public Utilities Minister Deodat Indar emphasized the importance of capacity building within GPL, while GPL Chairman Maurice Gajadhar hailed the partnership as a historic milestone in regional cooperation. InterEnergy’s Chairman highlighted the symbolic and strategic value of the agreement, expressing confidence in its potential to drive Guyana’s energy sector forward. The collaboration is part of a broader $400 million project to install a new transmission and distribution system, set for completion by mid-2026.