BELÉM, Brazil (Nov. 6, 2025) — Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda delivered a compelling address at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), emphasizing the critical need for political will to combat the escalating climate crisis. Speaking to global leaders, Browne highlighted the urgency of the situation, warning that inertia and indecision could jeopardize the planet’s future. He stressed that the world possesses the knowledge, technology, and financial resources to drive meaningful action but lacks the collective resolve to implement them. Browne described COP30 as the “COP of Truth,” urging it to be remembered as the moment when “honesty met action” and ambition translated into tangible results. He called for immediate and decisive measures to avert planetary disaster, noting that the 1.5°C threshold—a critical limit for small island states—has already been breached. For these nations, the climate crisis is not a distant threat but a daily reality. Browne criticized major polluters for their continued environmental destruction and advocated for an “economic revolution” to transform global production, consumption, and trade. He cited Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in the Caribbean as a stark reminder of the “loss and damage” caused by climate change, framing it as “the bill nature is presenting to humanity.” The prime minister also emphasized that climate finance should be seen as an obligation, not charity, and called for the adoption of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index to ensure targeted support. He praised Brazil for hosting the summit in the Amazon, the “lungs of the Earth,” and welcomed the launch of the Tropical Forests Forever Facility as a symbol of global solidarity. Browne concluded by urging nations to ensure COP30 is remembered as the moment when climate justice transitioned from promise to practice.
分类： politics
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Dominican National Police join Operation Sentry in New York
New York – Colonel Donni Sonni Cepeda, the Dominican National Police Liaison in New York and Providence, represented Major General Ramón Antonio Guzmán Peralta, Director General of the Dominican National Police, at the annual Operation Sentry Conference organized by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Accompanied by First Lieutenant Edgar Olega Montes de Oca, Colonel Cepeda underscored the Dominican Republic’s commitment to international security collaboration.
The event commenced with a reception on November 5 at the Peninsula Hotel in New York, hosted by the NYPD’s Office of Intelligence and Counterterrorism. The gathering celebrated the ongoing partnership between the Dominican National Police and the NYPD, highlighting their shared efforts in combating crime and terrorism.
The main conference, held on November 6 at NYPD headquarters, convened law enforcement representatives from across the globe. The forum served as a platform for intelligence sharing and the development of joint strategies to address transnational threats. The Dominican National Police’s participation in the conference reflects its dedication to fostering international cooperation and enhancing its capabilities in tackling global security challenges.
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Dominican Republic elected to UN International Civil Service Commission for the first time
In a groundbreaking development, the Dominican Republic has secured a seat on the United Nations International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) for the first time since the body’s inception. This historic achievement highlights the nation’s growing influence in global diplomacy. José A. Blanco Conde, the Dominican ambassador to Canada and former Permanent Representative to the UN, will represent the country on this prestigious commission. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1974, the ICSC is an independent expert body tasked with setting global standards for efficiency, fairness, and professionalism within the international civil service. Its responsibilities include defining salary structures, cost-of-living adjustments, duty station allowances, and human resource policies across the UN system. The Dominican Republic’s election to the 15-member commission, which serves four-year terms, underscores its commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and democratic principles. This milestone reflects the nation’s enhanced credibility and leadership in multilateral forums, as well as its dedication to equitable geographic representation and transparent management within the UN framework.
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Column: Een staatsman van eenvoud en overtuiging
The passing of former President Ronald Venetiaan has evoked profound feelings of respect and gratitude among many. Venetiaan, a rare breed of leader, combined authority with humility, leaving an indelible mark on Suriname’s political and moral landscape. His leadership was characterized by tactical acumen, principled decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to the nation’s interests over personal or partisan gain. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Venetiaan avoided the limelight, yet his influence was deeply felt in shaping the country’s governance and ethical compass. His unwavering integrity and modest demeanor earned him admiration even from political adversaries, a testament to his enduring moral authority. In a political climate often marred by corruption and self-interest, Venetiaan remained untarnished, a rarity that solidified his reputation as a true statesman. His collaborative approach with Vice President Jules Ajodhia symbolized trust and unity, a stark contrast to the divisiveness seen in recent years. Venetiaan’s decision to forego a state funeral aligns with his humble nature, yet such a ceremony would fittingly honor his legacy and the values he championed: dignity, principles, and decency in public service. For current and future leaders, Venetiaan’s life serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership lies not in loud proclamations but in listening, integrity, and simplicity. His enduring legacy is not etched in monuments but in the example he set—a beacon of moral leadership in an often tumultuous world.
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Pringle Calls for Vehicle Scandal Probe to Extend to Quarries and Cement Factory
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has intensified calls for a comprehensive forensic investigation into the Ministry of Works, urging that the scope of the ongoing vehicle procurement scandal probe be extended to include the quarries and cement factory under the ministry’s purview. Speaking during the second day of protests outside the ministry, Pringle, leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP), emphasized that these issues are interconnected, pointing to a broader pattern of alleged mismanagement and lack of transparency within the government.
Pringle highlighted the necessity of an independent investigation into the so-called ‘vehicle-gate’ scandal, as well as the quarries and cement factory, citing reports of $15 million allegedly misappropriated from the ministry. He also raised concerns about the ministry’s headquarters, which he claimed is ‘suffering tremendously from mold infestation.’
The UPP leader vowed to maintain pressure on the government until a full investigation is launched, stating, ‘We cannot continue to have this government hide or stifle accountability and transparency in Antigua and Barbuda. We will be here until we get such an investigation into the matters I’ve mentioned.’ The protest outside the Ministry of Works marked the second consecutive day of demonstrations by the UPP, which is advocating for independent oversight into government operations to ensure accountability and transparency.
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Homelessness advocate Saffrey eyes party politics as he signals run for Parliament
Kemar Saffrey, a prominent social advocate renowned for his dedication to addressing homelessness, has officially declared his intention to run in the upcoming general election. This marks his first formal step toward a parliamentary career, signaling his ambition to elevate his advocacy work to a national level. Saffrey, the founder and president of the Barbados Alliance to End Homelessness (BAEH), revealed that his interest in politics has been a long-standing pursuit, rather than a sudden decision.
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ULP projects are about people — Peters
Keisal Peters, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for West Kingstown, has strongly refuted Opposition Leader Godwin Friday’s assertion that a New Democratic Party (NDP) administration would prioritize people over projects. Speaking at a ULP rally in Richmond Hill, Kingstown, Peters emphasized that every initiative undertaken by the ULP is fundamentally about the people. She cited numerous projects, including housing developments, the BERRY Project, fisheries expansion, the Rabacca Bridge, the Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre, the Acute Referral Hospital, and the Argyle International Airport, as evidence of the ULP’s commitment to the populace. Peters, a first-time candidate, is vying to unseat NDP Chairman Daniel Cummings, who has held the West Kingstown seat since 2010. In the 2020 elections, Cummings secured his third consecutive term, while the ULP achieved a historic fifth consecutive term, winning nine of the 15 seats despite losing the popular vote for the first time since 1998. Peters criticized the NDP’s lack of vision, particularly their opposition to the Argyle International Airport, which she described as a transformative project for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. She also highlighted her achievements, including the completion of the Edinboro road and the rehabilitation of the Edinboro Hard Court, which she funded during her tenure as foreign minister. Peters underscored the ULP’s dedication to youth empowerment, contrasting it with the NDP’s alleged reluctance to embrace young talent. She urged voters to support the ULP in the upcoming general election, emphasizing the importance of youth participation and the dangers of silencing their voices.
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Paliza backs salary indexation but warns it shouldn’t harm the poor
In a recent statement, José Ignacio Paliza, the Dominican Republic’s Minister of the Presidency, highlighted the potential benefits of salary indexation as a mechanism to enhance the purchasing power of workers, particularly the middle class. However, he stressed that such measures must not negatively impact the nation’s most vulnerable populations. Speaking after a meeting of the PRM Executive Directorate on Friday, Paliza underscored the importance of balancing economic reforms with social equity. The proposed salary indexation is part of a broader government reform initiative introduced last year to address persistent inflation and improve family incomes. Paliza acknowledged the challenge of compensating for potential revenue losses to the State but firmly rejected suggestions to fund the initiative by cutting subsidies or social programs. He pointed out that these programs support over 700,000 Dominicans and have been instrumental in reducing poverty to historic lows. Paliza’s remarks reflect the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth while safeguarding social welfare.
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DOE: Ronald Venetiaan blijft voorbeeld van integriteit en staatsmanschap
The Party for Democracy and Development in Unity (DOE) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former President of the Republic of Suriname, Ronald Venetiaan. Affectionately known as “Vene” or “El Vene,” Venetiaan served three terms as head of state, making him the longest-serving president in Suriname’s history. His leadership was marked by principles, integrity, and a commitment to public service, playing a pivotal role in restoring democracy after a period of military rule. During his tenure, he ended the civil war and championed socio-economic recovery, political stability, and regional cooperation within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The DOE described Venetiaan as a principled leader—sometimes beloved, sometimes criticized—but always steadfast in his convictions. “To this day, there is no president comparable to Vene,” the party stated. His passing is seen as an opportunity to reflect on the values he embodied: ethics, justice, transparency, and national unity. DOE Chairman Steven Alfaisi emphasized, “These are ideals we must continue to fight for, despite all challenges.” The party extended its heartfelt condolences to the Venetiaan family, his friends, members of the National Party of Suriname (NPS), and the Surinamese people. “His flame has been extinguished, but his ideals continue to burn. His legacy will forever inspire us to work in the best interest of the nation and its people,” the DOE concluded. Rest in peace, El Vene.
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Leonel Fernández urges inflation adjustment to protect workers’ income
In a compelling statement on Thursday, Leonel Fernández, former President of the Dominican Republic and leader of the People’s Force, raised concerns over the detrimental effects of inflation on the nation’s workforce. Describing inflation as a “hidden tax,” Fernández emphasized the urgent need for policy adjustments to protect workers’ incomes and ensure tax equity.