President Luis Abinader is set to embark on a highly active day this Saturday, balancing solemn duties with celebratory events across Santo Domingo and Bonao. The day begins with the President attending the funeral of Vicente Sánchez Baret, a prominent political leader, at the National Congress in the National District at 10:30 am. Following this, at 12:00 pm, President Abinader will engage with young students from both public and private schools at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo’s Bonao Campus. At 1:30 pm, he will officiate the inauguration of the Padre José Salvador Fernández High School in Sabana del Puerto, Bonao. The day concludes with the President leading the inauguration of the Villa Mella Sports Center at 3:30 pm in Santo Domingo North, located near Central Park on Salomé Ureña Street.
作者: admin
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The eyes of the world are on the Dominican Republic: Why?
Francisco “Paco” Pérez, President of the Official Chamber of Commerce of Spain in the Dominican Republic (CAMACOESRD), highlighted on Wednesday that the Dominican Republic has become a focal point for global attention. Pérez attributed this growing interest to the nation’s remarkable economic, social, and political stability, which stands out in an era of global polarization. He emphasized that these attributes provide investors with a sense of security, ensuring that their investments are well-protected. Additionally, the country’s robust legal framework and attractive profitability further distinguish it as a prime destination for foreign investment. Pérez remarked, “These are the greatest attributes this country has for investment.”
Despite its strengths, Pérez acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in infrastructure development. He stressed the importance of enhancing road networks, water supply systems, and transportation to sustain the country’s growth trajectory. “The government shares this vision, and progress is underway,” he added.
Iban Campo Urriza, Secretary of the Official Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic and Director of Llorente y Cuenca (LLYC), emphasized the critical role of education in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Campo Urriza highlighted the need for skills development in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and closer alignment with technological advancements. He noted that while the Dominican Republic has made strides, there is still work to be done in equipping its workforce with the necessary technical expertise. “Innovation and entrepreneurship demand specific skills and technological proficiency, which the country must continue to address,” he said.
Campo Urriza also pointed to initiatives aimed at training local talent, including collaborations with international experts. He expressed confidence that strengthening these efforts would solidify the Dominican Republic’s position as a regional leader in Central America and the Caribbean. “Investing in talent development and specialized qualifications will make a significant difference in maintaining our competitive edge,” he concluded.
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Culture : Growing interest in Vietnam for the history, culture and values of the Haitian people
In a remarkable display of cultural diplomacy, the Embassy of Haiti in Vietnam recently hosted a group of students from the Vietnam Academy of Diplomacy, fostering a deeper understanding of Haiti’s rich history and cultural heritage. The event, led by Chargé d’Affaires Darlier Dorval and Counselor Léa Perceval, featured an engaging presentation on the Haitian Revolution and its enduring impact on global diplomacy, particularly within the Global South. This initiative underscored Haiti’s pivotal role as the first independent Black Republic and its influence on liberation movements worldwide. The visit also coincided with the commemoration of the Battle of Vertières, a cornerstone of Haiti’s independence struggle, inspiring several Vietnamese students to focus their graduation theses on Haiti. Adding a flavorful dimension to the exchange, Haitian chefs Lalaroque Bichat and Madame Amenda Merilien guided students in preparing Joumou soup, a symbol of Haitian freedom. The event further enriched cultural ties with a kompa dance workshop and a showcase of Haitian music, blending culinary and artistic traditions to celebrate shared values and stories.
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Quickscans onthullen grote misstanden: diepgaander onderzoek en externe audits nodig
During a press conference held on Friday, the government revealed that preliminary quickscans conducted across various ministries have uncovered alarming irregularities. The initial findings, described as deeply concerning by attending ministers, have prompted an immediate escalation to external financial audits and comprehensive investigations.
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Politic : Ceremony of the 219th anniversary of the assassination of Dessalines (video)
On October 17, 2025, Haiti solemnly commemorated the 219th anniversary of the assassination of General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a pivotal figure in the nation’s history and its first emperor. The ceremony, held at the Villa d’Accueil, was presided over by Laurent Saint Cyr, the Pro tempore President and Coordinator of the Transitional Council. Attendees included Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, members of the government, judiciary, military, and diplomatic corps, underscoring the event’s national significance. In his address, Saint Cyr honored Dessalines’ legacy, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to Haiti’s freedom and dignity. He highlighted the current challenges facing the nation, urging unity and resilience in the face of threats to its sovereignty. Saint Cyr also stressed the importance of restoring security as a precursor to organizing free and credible elections, a crucial step for Haiti’s future. Prime Minister Fils-Aimé echoed these sentiments, paying homage to Dessalines as the ‘Hero of Heroes’ and reaffirming the state’s dedication to the ideals of liberty, unity, and national sovereignty. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of Haiti’s enduring spirit and its commitment to the legacy of its founding father, Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
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FLASH : The USA sanctions two major Haitian terrorists
In a significant move to combat terrorism, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions on October 17, 2025, targeting two prominent Haitian gang leaders, Dimitri Herard and Kempes Sanon. Both individuals are linked to the notorious Haitian gang coalition ‘Viv Ansanm,’ which was designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization (SDGT) and a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Department of State on May 2, 2025. The sanctions were enacted under Executive Order 13224, which aims to disrupt terrorist activities by targeting their supporters and financiers. Dimitri Herard, a former Haitian police officer and ex-Commander-in-Chief of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, has been implicated in the 2021 assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse. Since his escape from prison in 2024, Herard has allegedly provided training and weapons to ‘Viv Ansanm,’ fueling coordinated attacks against Haitian state institutions. Kempes Sanon, leader of the Bel Air gang—a key member of the ‘Viv Ansanm’ alliance—has been accused of orchestrating civilian killings, extortion, and kidnappings. The OFAC sanctions freeze all U.S.-based assets of the designated individuals and prohibit American entities from engaging in transactions with them. Violations could result in severe civil or criminal penalties. Additionally, foreign financial institutions facilitating transactions for these individuals risk secondary sanctions, including restrictions on U.S. correspondent accounts. This action underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to curbing terrorism and stabilizing Haiti’s fragile political landscape.
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Spanish businessmen highlight the advantages and challenges of investing in the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic has solidified its position as a global investment hub, attracting significant Spanish investment totaling $1.126 billion, second only to the United States. This surge is attributed to the nation’s robust legal security, macroeconomic stability, and attractive incentives, as highlighted by executives from the Official Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic (CAMACOESRD) and the Dominican Week in Spain (SEDE) platform during a recent luncheon hosted by the Corripio Communications Group. Francisco (Paco) Pérez, president of CAMACOESRD, emphasized the country’s exceptional economic, social, and political stability, which stands out in an era of global polarization. He noted that Spanish investment has diversified beyond tourism into strategic sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure, and communications. José Maldonado, vice president of SEDE, underscored the role of the Renewable Energy Law and the double taxation treaty between the two nations in driving investment. However, challenges remain, particularly in improving service infrastructure and education to meet the demands of new investments. Pérez and other leaders stressed the importance of maintaining tax incentives to sustain the Dominican Republic’s regional leadership, citing competition from countries like Jamaica and Costa Rica. In a bid to further promote the country, Spanish business leaders announced the upcoming SEDE event, scheduled for March 27-31 in Madrid and Asturias, which will showcase the Dominican Republic’s banking system, digital advancements, and creative industries.
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Government Strikes $128M Deal for Fortis’ Hydro Assets and BEL Shares
In a landmark move, the Belizean government, led by Prime Minister John Briceño, has finalized a $128 million deal to acquire Fortis Belize’s hydro assets and a 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). The agreement, announced in the House of Representatives, follows an independent valuation by Nera Consulting, which appraised the hydro assets at $122 million. Through strategic negotiations, the government secured a $12 million discount, reducing the cost to $110 million. Additionally, the BEL shares, initially valued at $62 million, were purchased for just $18 million, marking a significant reduction. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized that the final prices were based on historical data, global projections, and future profitability, ensuring a fair deal for taxpayers. However, the acquisition raises critical questions about its impact on consumers. Will electricity tariffs decrease, and if so, when? How will hydrological risks, such as droughts and low reservoir levels, affect hydroelectric power generation? Furthermore, how will Belize’s reliance on imported electricity from Mexico influence tariff stability post-acquisition? The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) may conduct a separate review to adjust rates based on revised generation costs, adding another layer of complexity to this transformative deal.


