The United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) Net-Zero Framework (NZF), designed to combat climate change through green shipping, faces significant hurdles due to economic and political resistance. Approved for circulation in April 2025, the framework aimed to establish global standards for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the shipping sector. However, its adoption was delayed in October 2025 due to opposition from key players, including the United States and Saudi Arabia. The U.S. labeled the initiative a ‘Global Green New Scam Tax,’ fearing increased shipping costs and economic repercussions. Saudi Arabia, a major petroleum exporter, proposed a one-year delay in voting, further stalling progress. The framework’s core elements—a global fuel standard and an economic measure—aim to reduce emissions through a carbon credit trading system. Ships exceeding emission limits would pay penalties, while low-emission vessels would earn credits. Despite its potential to drive sustainable shipping, concerns over rising consumer prices and the economic impact on oil-dependent nations have fueled resistance. Caribbean states, vulnerable to climate change but reliant on imports, abstained from voting, highlighting the complex balance between environmental and economic priorities. Economists emphasize the need to address both transition costs and the urgent realities of climate change. The pause in the NZF’s adoption underscores the challenges of aligning global climate efforts with diverse national interests. Moving forward, IMO members must work collaboratively to address concerns and advance a viable plan for reducing shipping emissions.
分类： world
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Hurricane Melissa: A Wake-Up Call the World Will Probably Ignore at COP30
Hurricane Melissa, a catastrophic storm that ravaged the Caribbean in late October 2025, has left a trail of destruction across Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. With recovery efforts underway, the disaster has reignited urgent discussions about the escalating intensity of tropical cyclones in an era of global warming. Haiti has reported 31 fatalities, with 21 individuals still missing, primarily in the southern regions. Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness confirmed 28 deaths, cautioning that the toll may rise in the coming days. Cuba, while reporting no fatalities, evacuated over 735,000 residents due to severe flooding. The storm’s timing is particularly poignant as it precedes the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, set to begin on November 6. Experts argue that warmer oceans, fueled by climate change, are intensifying hurricanes, disproportionately affecting poorer nations that contribute least to global emissions. Despite Jamaica’s catastrophe bond releasing $150 million for relief, the Caribbean faces a staggering $100 billion investment need to build resilience against future disasters, as repeated storms exacerbate debt burdens.
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Extradition of Mehul Choksi to India Suspended Pending Belgium Appeal
The extradition of Mehul Choksi, an Indian-born diamond magnate and Antiguan citizen, has been temporarily suspended following his appeal to Belgium’s Supreme Court. The appeal challenges a lower court’s decision that had approved his return to India to face charges related to a $1.55 billion fraud at Punjab National Bank (PNB). Ken Witpas, the public prosecutor at the Antwerp Court of Appeal, confirmed the suspension, stating that the Court of Cassation will now review the legal validity of Choksi’s case. Choksi, the founder of the Gitanjali Group, is accused of conspiring with his nephew Nirav Modi and bank officials to fraudulently obtain Letters of Undertaking and Foreign Letters of Credit, resulting in losses of approximately $730 million. On October 17, the Antwerp Court of Appeals ruled that Choksi would not face unfair treatment or trial in India, but he filed an appeal on October 30, halting the extradition process. Choksi fled India in 2018, acquired Antiguan citizenship, and reportedly relocated to Belgium in 2023. If extradited, he would be detained at Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail, which Indian authorities claim complies with European human rights standards. The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision will determine whether Choksi, who has evaded Indian authorities for nearly seven years, will finally stand trial on charges including criminal conspiracy, cheating, and corruption.
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Families seek next steps after reporting fishermen missing
The families of two Trinidad and Tobago fishermen, Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo, are anxiously awaiting official confirmation regarding their loved ones’ fate after they were believed to have been killed in a US military strike on October 12. The strike targeted an alleged drug-transporting vessel in international waters. Relatives filed missing person reports on November 1 and 2, following advice from Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander. Joseph’s family held a memorial, claiming Venezuelan sources confirmed his presence on the destroyed vessel. Samaroo’s sister, Sallycar Korasingh, appealed to the Prime Minister for assistance, expressing uncertainty about his whereabouts but desperation for answers. Both families faced challenges in filing reports, with police citing jurisdictional issues due to the incident occurring in international waters. Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Sean Sobers stated there was no evidence linking the fishermen to the strike, emphasizing it occurred outside Trinidad and Tobago’s waters. Despite repeated attempts, neither Alexander nor Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge responded to inquiries from Newsday regarding updates or coordination with US authorities.
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Trini UWI students in Jamaica eye return to normalcy
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which wreaked havoc across Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago has stepped up its humanitarian efforts to assist those affected. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar personally oversaw the preparation and dispatch of the first shipment of relief supplies from the PLIPDECO Warehouse Complex at Point Lisas Industrial Estate. The aid, which includes essential items such as water, toiletries, canned food, pasta, and bread, is part of a broader initiative to support the Caribbean neighbor in its time of need.
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US Embassy donates hurricane relief supplies to Bahamas Red Cross
The United States Embassy in Nassau has extended a helping hand to the Bahamas by donating over $30,000 worth of hurricane relief supplies to the Bahamas Red Cross. This contribution aims to assist communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa. The donation includes essential items such as hygiene kits, bedding, and other non-food necessities, underscoring the US’s unwavering commitment to aiding The Bahamas during times of crisis. US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish, who recently visited the affected islands, expressed her deep concern for the residents facing a difficult recovery process. She emphasized that the US stands in solidarity with the Bahamian people and highlighted the enduring partnership between the US Embassy and the Red Cross. ‘The Red Cross exemplifies the spirit of Bahamians helping Bahamians, with the US playing a supportive role,’ Mrs. Furnish remarked. She ceremoniously handed over the supplies to Red Cross President Edison Sumner, who expressed gratitude for the timely assistance. Mr. Sumner noted that early assessments reveal significant damage across central and southeastern islands, and the Red Cross is preparing to distribute supplies to the most affected areas. He also issued a national appeal for further support, extending aid to Jamaica and other storm-impacted nations. Jerusa Ali, Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commended the US Embassy for their continued support and collaboration.
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Caribbean authorities enhance collaborative efforts on climate and land use strategies at gathering in Barbados
Delegates from twelve Caribbean nations convened in Barbados from October 30 to 31, 2025, to bolster regional efforts in climate resilience and sustainable land management. The summit, organized under the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), aimed to strengthen collaboration with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This meeting followed resolutions from the 4th PISLM Ministerial Council held in Grenada earlier in June 2025, which called for a robust regional framework to enhance access to international climate funding. Hon. Adrian Forde, Barbados’s Minister of Environment and National Beautification and PISLM Council Chair, emphasized the Caribbean’s disproportionate vulnerability to climate change despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. He advocated for “concessional, rapid, and predictable finance” as both a necessity and a right for the region. Forde also expressed solidarity with Jamaica, acknowledging the challenges it faces and the potential policy hurdles in addressing climate-related issues. Dr. Ronen Francis, PISLM Executive Director, highlighted the organization’s commitment to restoring degraded lands, improving ecosystem services, and enhancing community livelihoods. He stressed the importance of collaboration among governments, development partners, and local communities to achieve sustainable land management and drought resilience. The conference also showcased progress in various GEF-funded projects, including the SOILCARE initiative, Integrated Landscape Management in Carriacou, and the Caribbean Drought Initiative. PISLM reaffirmed its role in translating global environmental commitments into actionable local strategies, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for the Caribbean.
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Cuba Ambassador: Aid will continue despite hardships after Melissa
Cuba’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Yenielys Vilma Regueiferos Linares, has acknowledged the difficulties faced by Saint Lucian students in Cuba following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa. Despite the country’s economic hardships, Cuba remains committed to its aid initiatives in the region. The hurricane, which struck Cuba as a Category 3 storm on October 26, caused widespread destruction, power outages, and the evacuation of approximately 730,000 people. Linares assured concerned parents that Cuban authorities were taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of students, though the ongoing blackouts have heightened anxieties. She emphasized that recovery efforts are underway across the affected provinces. Linares attributed the slow recovery to the longstanding US economic embargo, which has severely limited Cuba’s access to resources and foreign investment. She also highlighted the recent tightening of economic restrictions under the current US administration. Despite these challenges, Cuba continues to strengthen its diplomatic ties and maintain its medical and sports programs in Saint Lucia. Norberto Ramos González, Director of Cuba’s Medical Brigade in Saint Lucia, noted the embargo’s adverse impact on healthcare, including shortages of medical supplies and medicines. Ambassador Linares expressed pride in Cuba’s achievements in education, health, and culture despite the embargo, envisioning even greater progress without such constraints. Cuba remains dedicated to offering educational opportunities and sustaining its medical brigades in over 56 countries worldwide.
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STATEMENT: IOM Dominica congratulates the nation on 47 years of progress and purpose
As Dominica commemorates its 47th Independence Anniversary under the theme “47 Years of Progress and Purpose,” the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation’s government and citizens. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on Dominica’s journey since gaining independence—a path marked by courage, unity, and an unwavering commitment to building a resilient future. The theme not only honors the achievements of the past 47 years but also calls on all Dominicans to continue advancing with a clear sense of purpose, ensuring that progress benefits everyone, both at home and abroad.
Though not a native Dominican, I have had the privilege of witnessing the nation’s remarkable strength and spirit firsthand. The people of Dominica exemplify resilience, rebuilding after natural disasters, finding opportunities in adversity, and fostering a vibrant, creative, and proud culture.
At the IOM, we believe that purpose-driven progress must be inclusive and sustainable. In Dominica, the organization collaborates with the government, local communities, and partners to enhance resilience and support national priorities. Key areas of focus include disaster preparedness and response, livelihood recovery, climate resilience initiatives, and assistance for migrants and vulnerable populations.
Migration, when managed with dignity and foresight, can serve as a powerful catalyst for national development. It empowers families, connects communities, and contributes to social and economic advancement. The IOM’s mission in Dominica aligns closely with the nation’s vision of a future where no one is left behind.
As Dominica celebrates this significant anniversary, the theme serves as a reminder that progress without purpose is incomplete. The spirit of unity, courage, and compassion that has guided the nation through the past decades will continue to illuminate the path forward.
On behalf of IOM Dominica, I extend sincere congratulations to the government and people of Dominica. May this Independence Day not only celebrate how far the nation has come but also inspire a future guided by purpose, creativity, and the collective strength of its people. Happy Independence, Dominica!
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Dominica has made consistent efforts towards development – CARICOM SG says on country’s Independence Anniversary
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has lauded Dominica for its unwavering commitment to regional integration and sustainable development. In a congratulatory message marking the Commonwealth of Dominica’s Forty-Seventh Anniversary of Independence, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett commended the nation’s progress and leadership in advancing the regional integration movement. Dr. Barnett highlighted Dominica’s pivotal role in implementing full freedom of movement across CARICOM by 1 October 2025, describing it as a historic milestone in achieving collective integration goals. The message underscored Dominica’s dedication to its development objectives, encapsulated in this year’s theme, “47 Years of Progress and Purpose.” Dr. Barnett extended best wishes for continued peace, prosperity, and progress to the government and people of Dominica. CARICOM, established in 1973, continues to champion economic integration, foreign policy coordination, human and social development, and security cooperation among its fifteen Member States and six Associate Members. Dominica’s efforts exemplify CARICOM’s mission to create a unified, resilient, and globally competitive community.