Barbados has formally transferred the presidency of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Quadrennial to Switzerland, marking a significant transition in global trade leadership. This handover follows Barbados’ historic role as the first small island developing state to host the UNCTAD 15 ministerial conference four years ago during the pandemic. The 16th UNCTAD ministerial conference, themed ‘Shaping the Future: Driving Economic Transformation for Equitable, Inclusive and Sustainable Development,’ is set to convene from October 20 to 23 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UNCTAD, a UN agency dedicated to integrating developing nations into the global economy through sustainable trade practices, continues to play a pivotal role in addressing global economic challenges. Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados delivered a powerful opening statement via video, emphasizing the urgent need to reinforce multilateralism amidst global instability. She warned that the international order is at risk of unraveling due to shifting geopolitical dynamics and questioned values such as gender equality and diversity. Mottley called for a reinvention of multilateralism, stressing that multipolarity without agreed rules could hinder sustainable growth and peace. Barbados’ delegation, led by Minister Sandra Husbands, actively participated in key discussions, including the Group of 77 and small island developing states meetings. Ambassador Matthew Wilson, elected as a vice chair of the conference, contributed to sessions on trade, productive capacities, and youth engagement. Additionally, Barbados leveraged the occasion to strengthen ties with its diaspora in Switzerland and Caribbean ambassadors through a cultural event promoting ‘We Gatherin 2025.’
分类： world
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Tariff rift opens a window for Barbados tourism
In the midst of geopolitical tensions between the United States and Canada, smaller nations often find themselves navigating the ripple effects. However, for Barbados, this turbulence has unveiled a unique opportunity to strengthen its tourism sector. The recent tariff war and cooling diplomatic relations between the two North American giants have disrupted traditional travel patterns, prompting Canadians to seek alternative destinations. Barbados, with its century-long ties to Canada, is poised to capitalize on this shift.
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News : Zapping…
In a significant development for Haiti, the White House has formally communicated its endorsement to the U.S. Congress for the renewal of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity Through Partnership for Encouragement (HOPE) Act and the extension of the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act. James Monazard, Secretary of Commerce and Industry, confirmed this move during a radio broadcast in the capital, highlighting the administration’s commitment to bolstering Haiti’s economic prospects.
In a separate initiative, the French Embassy in Haiti has pledged €2 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to aid the reintegration of deported Haitians. This funding will facilitate border assistance, food aid, healthcare access, and the establishment of income-generating activities, aiming to provide sustainable support for returnees.
Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Voodoo of Haiti has announced a national vigil on November 1st and 2nd, coinciding with the feast of the Guédés, to promote peace across the nation. This spiritual gathering underscores the cultural significance of Voodoo in Haitian society.
In a milestone for regional connectivity, the Antoine Simon International Airport in Les Cayes is set to welcome its first international commercial flight between October 28th and November 2nd, 2025. This development marks a new chapter in Haiti’s aviation history.
On the diplomatic front, French Ambassador Antoine Michon met with the Franco-Haitian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss strengthening economic ties between France and Haiti. The talks focused on fostering job creation and enhancing bilateral trade.
In sports, the Inter-University Peace Tournament saw a tense match between the Institute of Advanced Business and Economic Studies (IHECE) and GOC University, ending in a 0-0 draw. The event continues to promote unity and sportsmanship among Haitian youth.
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Tropical Storm Melissa forms in the Caribbean, hurricane watch issued for Haiti
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced the emergence of Tropical Storm Melissa in the Caribbean early Tuesday morning, issuing initial warnings and watches. A hurricane watch has been activated for parts of Haiti as the storm intensifies. Currently situated approximately 300 miles off Port-au-Prince, Melissa boasts sustained winds of 50 mph. Environmental conditions are increasingly favorable for its development as it moves slowly across the central Caribbean Sea. Strengthening low-level winds and atmospheric dynamics suggest the storm could gain strength within the next 24 hours. Melissa is projected to bring heavy rainfall, powerful gusts, and hazardous waves to the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) in the coming days. Additionally, the storm’s instability and moisture may impact Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Cuba, heightening the risk of localized flooding and river swells by the week’s end. The Dominican Republic faces a significant threat of heavy rains and potential mudslides. While the storm’s precise trajectory remains uncertain, current forecasts do not indicate an immediate threat to South Florida. Authorities are urging residents across the Caribbean, particularly from the Dominican Republic to eastern Cuba, to remain vigilant and monitor updates closely.
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President Simons: Chinese gemeenschap onverbrekelijk deel van Surinaamse identiteit
The Suriname Chinese United Association (SCUA), in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy, commemorated the 172nd anniversary of Chinese immigration to Suriname today. The event, marked by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Friendship Monument on Trefossa Square in Paramaribo, saw President Jennifer Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland express their gratitude for the enduring contributions of the Chinese community to Surinamese society. President Simons highlighted the deep integration of the Chinese community since the 19th century, stating, ‘The first Chinese immigrants became deeply embedded in our communities, building relationships, supporting their surroundings, and becoming an integral part of our families and culture.’ She emphasized that their contributions extend far beyond trade and entrepreneurship, with Surinamese of Chinese descent now active in all professional fields, from business to politics. The President also announced the establishment of a national Heritage Month starting next year, honoring all ethnic groups within the broader narrative of nation-building. Chinese Ambassador Lin Ji praised the role of the Chinese community in Suriname’s development, noting their hard work and resilience. He announced plans to build a new commemorative pavilion in Friendship Park as a lasting symbol of the bond between the two nations. Looking ahead to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, Ambassador Lin Ji reaffirmed the commitment to deepening cooperation, stating, ‘The relationship between China and Suriname is deeply rooted and steadfast. May our friendship continue to flourish and contribute to the prosperity of our peoples.’
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Tropical storm watch now in effect for Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Authorities in Jamaica have issued a tropical storm watch as a developing weather system in the central Caribbean threatens to escalate into a tropical cyclone. The alert, effective immediately, indicates that tropical storm conditions could impact the island within the next 48 hours.
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Trini in US boat strike related to dead gang leader
A recent US military strike targeting an alleged Venezuelan drug boat has left two Trinidad and Tobago (TT) citizens dead, including Chad Joseph, a resident of Las Cuevas. The incident, which occurred on October 14 in international waters off Venezuela’s coast, has sparked controversy as Joseph’s family questions the relevance of his familial ties to the deceased drug lord Vaughn “Sandman” Mieres. Joseph, believed to be among the six men killed in the strike, was Mieres’ nephew. Mieres, a notorious figure, was charged during the 2011 state of emergency as a gang leader but was released due to insufficient evidence. He was later killed in a 2019 attack on his fortified home. Joseph’s aunt, Lynette Burnley, emphasized that Joseph had distanced himself from his past and was leading a normal life, urging the public not to tarnish his character. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, has advised Joseph’s family to file a missing person’s report, referencing a 2018 incident where Joseph was arrested on a drug-carrying vessel. This strike marks the fifth such operation by the US in its campaign against alleged narco-traffickers in the southern Caribbean, with the death toll now exceeding 30. Survivors from the latest strike, two men from Colombia and Ecuador, have been repatriated to their respective countries.
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Wife of Colombian killed in US strike says life taken unjustly
In a tragic incident that has sparked widespread debate, Alejandro Carranza, a 40-year-old fisherman from Santa Marta, Colombia, was killed in a US military strike last month. Carranza’s family insists he was an innocent man devoted to his craft, while US authorities claim he was among 32 alleged drug traffickers targeted in the Caribbean.
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Severe weather alert in effect for Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Meteorological Service has activated a severe weather alert, effective until 6:00 am on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, as a tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea evolves into a more organized system. This developing low-pressure area, currently lacking a well-defined center but exhibiting winds nearing 72 km/h (45 m/h), is forecast to intensify into a tropical storm later today. Environmental conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for further development, raising concerns about the potential formation of a tropical cyclone near Jamaica. Satellite, radar, and surface observations confirm the system’s progression, with its slow movement over the central Caribbean Sea expected to bring significant impacts to the island. Tropical storm conditions, including locally heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds, are anticipated to affect eastern and southern parishes from late Wednesday through Thursday, with rainfall potentially extending into the weekend. Marine areas are also at risk, with widespread showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds predicted to impact all zones, particularly inshore and offshore the south coast. Fishermen operating on the cays and banks are urged to finalize preparations and remain vigilant for possible evacuation orders.
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Tropical System Leaves Caribbean Region After Threat of Cyclone Formation
A tropical wave that had been causing significant rainfall and strong winds across the eastern Caribbean Sea has now moved away from the region, according to the National Weather Service’s latest update on Monday. The system, identified as AL98, had been under close scrutiny by meteorologists, who initially projected an 80% likelihood of cyclone formation within a seven-day period. Moving westward at speeds of 15 to 20 mph, the wave had raised alarms for the Windward, Leeward, and ABC Islands. Forecasters had warned that environmental conditions were increasingly favorable for the development of a tropical depression or storm. However, the system has since shifted, leaving the affected areas with clearer skies and calmer waters. Earlier in the week, residents of the Windward and Leeward Islands experienced bouts of heavy rain and gusty winds, though these conditions have now subsided. Mariners were advised to stay updated through High Seas Forecasts, with a 50% risk of formation over the next 48 hours and an 80% probability over seven days. Authorities remain vigilant in monitoring tropical activity in the Caribbean, urging preparedness as the hurricane season continues.