Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has arrived in Belém, Brazil, to attend the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Upon his arrival, Browne engaged in high-level discussions with global leaders, including Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), and President Irfaan Ali of Guyana. These talks focused on collaborative strategies to enhance climate resilience, promote sustainable development, and ensure global health security in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Accompanied by a delegation of climate experts and officials, Browne delivered a compelling address at the COP30 Plenary Session, emphasizing the existential threats faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) due to climate change. He called for honesty, courage, and immediate action, stressing that the 1.5°C global warming limit is a lifeline for nations like Antigua and Barbuda. Browne highlighted the need for equitable climate finance, stronger global accountability, and accelerated emissions reduction, asserting that climate finance is a matter of justice, not charity. He also commended Brazil for hosting COP30 in the Amazon and launching the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, describing it as a symbol of global solidarity. Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to resilience, adaptation, and the principles of Loss and Damage, urging the world to act with political and moral will to address the climate crisis.
分类： world
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OECS congratulates new Director General of IICA, Dr Muhammad Ibrahim
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has warmly congratulated Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim from Guyana on his election as the next Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) for the term 2026–2030. In a formal statement, the OECS Commission celebrated this significant achievement alongside the governments and citizens of the Caribbean Community, highlighting it as a proud moment for Guyana and a reflection of the Caribbean’s pivotal role in advancing agricultural innovation and sustainable development across the Americas.
Hon. John Osborne, Montserrat’s Minister of Agriculture and Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers of Agriculture, lauded Dr. Ibrahim’s election, stating, ‘Dr. Ibrahim’s leadership exemplifies the Caribbean’s ability to shape the future of agriculture in the Americas. His career has been dedicated to integrating science, innovation, and sustainability into the lives of farmers. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with him to strengthen resilient food systems and ensure our small states continue to contribute to global food security.’
Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, described the election as a reaffirmation of the Caribbean’s global agricultural leadership. He emphasized Dr. Ibrahim’s expertise in linking agricultural transformation, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of small farmers—areas crucial to the small island developing states of the Eastern Caribbean.
Dr. Jules also reiterated the OECS’s commitment to partnering with IICA under Dr. Ibrahim’s leadership. Key areas of collaboration include advancing climate-resilient and technology-driven agriculture, promoting regional food and nutrition security, and enhancing institutional capacity while engaging youth in agricultural innovation. He expressed optimism about Dr. Ibrahim’s tenure, particularly as the region’s agricultural sector grapples with challenges such as climate change, food price volatility, and the need for transformative production and trade strategies.
The OECS Commission expressed confidence that under Dr. Ibrahim’s guidance, IICA will continue to exemplify technical excellence and hemispheric solidarity, paving the way for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural future for all member states.
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Three killed in new US strike on alleged drug boat in Caribbean
In a recent development, US forces conducted another controversial strike in the Caribbean, targeting an alleged drug trafficking vessel and resulting in the deaths of three individuals. Pentagon spokesperson Pete Hegseth confirmed the operation, which has now raised the total death toll of Washington’s anti-narcotics campaign to at least 70. The strike, carried out in international waters, was part of a broader initiative launched in early September to combat drug trafficking in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific regions.
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Melissa triggers 100% payout of US$150 million World Bank catastrophe bond for Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Following the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is poised to receive a full payout of US$150 million under its catastrophe insurance coverage, facilitated by a World Bank-backed catastrophe bond issued in 2024. This financial support underscores the effectiveness of Jamaica’s disaster risk management strategy and the critical role of catastrophe bonds in mitigating the economic impact of natural disasters.
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Accused drug trafficker wants extradition to US reversed
Shurlan Guppy, a 47-year-old Trinidadian accused of drug trafficking, has petitioned the High Court to order his return to Trinidad and Tobago (TT) after being extradited to the United States on August 5, 2025. Guppy, currently held in federal custody in Pennsylvania, faces 11 charges related to heroin and cocaine trafficking, with the alleged crimes valued at approximately $1 million. His legal team argues that his extradition violated procedural safeguards and breached his constitutional rights. The case has sparked a legal battle involving multiple jurisdictions, including the Privy Council in London, where a special leave application remains pending. Guppy’s attorneys contend that his extradition occurred prematurely, while his appeal was still active, despite assurances from state attorneys to wait. At a recent High Court hearing, Guppy’s legal team objected to the State’s request for an adjournment, accusing authorities of disregarding the rule of law. State attorneys, however, maintain that the extradition was lawful and occurred after the agreed-upon 56-day appeal window had expired. Justice Jacqueline Wilson adjourned the matter to January 26, 2026, pending the Privy Council’s decision. Guppy’s indictment in the U.S. alleges that he conspired to distribute controlled substances, including heroin and cocaine, from 2017 to 2022, using various methods such as delivery services and encrypted communication apps like WhatsApp. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence with a mandatory minimum of 10 years. In Trinidad, Guppy’s claims of entrapment, selective prosecution, and disproportionate interference with his family life were dismissed by both the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
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Hon. Anthony Smith Among Agriculture Ministers Taking Action Against Crop and Animal Diseases
In a landmark meeting held in Brasilia on November 5, 2025, the Ministers of Agriculture from across the Americas convened to address the escalating threat of cross-border plant and animal diseases. Organized by the Brazilian government in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the conference underscored the urgent need for enhanced technical cooperation, improved information sharing, and access to cutting-edge technologies to combat diseases such as the New World screwworm and African swine fever. These diseases pose a significant risk to food security and the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities throughout the hemisphere. The ministers unanimously agreed to bolster the Agricultural Health and Food Security Initiative of the Americas, a strategic platform designed to harmonize and amplify regional efforts in safeguarding agricultural health. Emphasizing the importance of science-based decision-making in trade processes, the delegates, particularly from Argentina and the United States, highlighted the critical role of maintaining a competitive, safe, and healthy agrifood system. As the world’s largest net food exporting region, the Americas are committed to ensuring prosperity and enhancing public health at both national and regional levels. The IICA, a specialized agency within the Inter-American system, continues to play a pivotal role in fostering agricultural development and rural well-being through its international technical cooperation initiatives.
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FAO announces selection of new assistant director-general and regional representative for Latin America and the Caribbean
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has announced the appointment of Mr. Rene Orellana Halkyer as the new Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean. This decision, made under the leadership of FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, follows a highly competitive global selection process. Mr. Orellana Halkyer, a Bolivian national, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. He holds a doctorate in Law from the University of Amsterdam, specializing in Interlegality and Legal Fields, along with advanced degrees in Law and Economics of Climate Change, Energy and Environmental Policy, and a Bachelor’s in Sociology. His professional journey includes serving as Bolivia’s Ambassador to Uruguay, Regional Manager for Mexico and Central America at the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), and various ministerial roles in Bolivia, including Minister for Environment and Water. Mr. Orellana Halkyer has also been actively involved in international climate negotiations, including the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In his new capacity, he emphasized the region’s potential to lead sustainable food and agriculture systems, stating, ‘We will work to promote strategic investments aligned with global initiatives such as Hand-in-Hand, to strengthen productivity, boost rural economies, and improve the quality of life of communities.’ He officially assumed his role on November 1, 2025.
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Brazilian illegal gold miners at Iwokrama entered Guyana as tourists
In a startling revelation, the Iwokrama International Centre disclosed that several Brazilian nationals entered Guyana under the guise of tourists to engage in illegal gold mining within the Iwokrama Rainforest, a protected area. The Centre, established by the Guyana government and the Commonwealth, reported that these individuals fled their operations, leaving behind passports that confirmed their involvement in illicit activities. Two of the miners, Jailson Ferreira Lima and Iago Silva Alves, were apprehended, while others, including Jose Antonio Rodrigues Dos Santos and Jose Dos Santos Silvino, managed to escape. Silvino was later arrested on October 8, along with Flaviano Teixiera-Costa, during a joint operation by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the Guyana Police Force, and Iwokrama Rangers. The Centre emphasized that gold mining is strictly prohibited in the Iwokrama Forest, as outlined in the Iwokrama Act of 1996, and warned that such activities threaten ecological integrity, disrupt local livelihoods, and undermine protected area management systems. The Centre also released images of the environmental damage caused by the illegal mining, including piles of solid waste and cleared forest areas. Collaboration with various governmental agencies has been crucial in addressing these violations, and the Centre remains committed to combating such illegal activities.
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News : Zapping…
In a significant development, Guatemala has announced its commitment to deploy 300 police and military personnel to Haiti as part of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), starting in April 2026. This decision was revealed during the Organization of American States (OAS) session, where Secretary General Albert Ramdin called for accelerated contributions from member states to combat gang violence in Haiti. Meanwhile, Atlantic Global Logistics (AGL) has expressed frustration over a five-year delay in receiving authorization from the Haitian government to commence operations at its $60 million container terminal. Despite being fully equipped and built to international standards, AGL continues to repay loans without generating revenue, highlighting bureaucratic inefficiencies. On the humanitarian front, the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES), with support from Colombia, distributed hygiene and sanitation kits to displaced families in Kenskoff, improving living conditions and disease prevention. In sports, the Haitian junior judo team achieved remarkable success, securing 7 medals, including 3 gold, at the Pan American and Caribbean Cup. Additionally, FAES distributed 27,000 hot meals to displaced families in Port-au-Prince and Pétion-Ville, underscoring ongoing efforts to address food insecurity. Lastly, Presidential Transitional Advisor Smith Augustin embarked on an international tour, attending key conferences in Brazil and the CELAC-EU Summit, signaling Haiti’s active participation in global dialogues.
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Muhammad Ibrahim elected new head of IICA, promises to work across the board for Caribbean region and Latin America
Muhammad Ibrahim of Guyana has been elected as the new Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), marking a significant milestone in regional agricultural leadership. The decision was finalized during the 23rd Regular Meeting of the Inter-American Board of Agriculture (IABA), held in Brasília, Brazil, and attended by Agriculture ministers from across the Americas. Ibrahim secured the position through a majority vote, defeating Fernando Mattos of Uruguay, who graciously congratulated him on his victory.
In his acceptance speech, Ibrahim expressed deep gratitude and outlined his vision for collaborative progress. ‘We will work together with all countries of the Americas to forge a path of cooperation,’ he stated. ‘I am honored and grateful to have been elected to lead this great institution and recognize the commendable work carried out by outgoing Director General Manuel Otero.’
With over three decades of experience as an agricultural engineer, Ibrahim has dedicated his career to enhancing productivity and resilience in the agricultural sector. His nomination by the government of Guyana underscores his reputation as a seasoned leader in international agricultural management. Ibrahim has pledged to prioritize research, innovative technologies, and sustainable growth to strengthen food security across the Americas.
His leadership will officially commence on January 15, 2026, during a ceremony at IICA’s headquarters in San José, Costa Rica. He will succeed Manuel Otero, whose tenure began in 2018 and was extended through reelection in 2021. Ibrahim’s election signals a new era of cooperation and innovation for IICA, as it continues to address the challenges and opportunities in the agricultural landscape of the Americas.