In a significant acknowledgment of regional anti-drug efforts, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) formally praised President Luis Abinader and the Dominican Republic for their robust collaboration in combating drug trafficking across the Caribbean. A high-level DEA delegation, headed by Principal Deputy Administrator Daniel Salter, met with President Abinader to commend the nation’s unwavering commitment to this critical cause. The delegation also included Michael A. Miranda from the DEA’s Caribbean Division and Kaleb T. Sanderson, DEA Attaché for the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Representing the Dominican Republic, Vice Admiral José M. Cabrera Ulloa, Director of the National Directorate for Drug Control (DNCD), participated in the discussions. President Abinader expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to working closely with the United States to tackle international drug trafficking, narco-terrorism, and associated crimes. He emphasized the Dominican Republic’s role as a pivotal regional ally in counterdrug operations. Following their meeting at the National Palace, DEA officials convened a working session at the DNCD headquarters with Vice Admiral Cabrera Ulloa and senior Dominican anti-drug authorities. Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation through improved equipment, strengthened collaboration, and expanded real-time intelligence sharing to combat criminal organizations, including the Cartel of the Suns.
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Beijings Olympische Parels: Het kloppend hart van stadions en symbolen
Beijing’s Olympic venues, including the iconic Bird’s Nest, Ice Ribbon, and Water Cube, continue to stand as symbols of architectural brilliance and Olympic legacy. These structures, initially built for the 2008 Summer Olympics and later utilized for the 2022 Winter Games, remain functional hubs for sports, culture, and entertainment. The Bird’s Nest, officially known as the National Stadium, is renowned for its unique steel lattice design resembling a bird’s nest. Designed by the Swiss-Japanese duo Herzog & de Meuron and Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, it hosted both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 and 2022 Olympics. With a seating capacity of 80,000, expandable to 91,000, it’s a marvel of energy-efficient and eco-friendly architecture. The Ice Ribbon, or National Speed Skating Oval, is another engineering feat, designed to resemble a flowing ribbon of ice. It’s one of the fastest skating tracks globally, thanks to advanced ice production and climate control systems. The Water Cube, or National Aquatics Center, features a bubble-like exterior inspired by water molecules and was a key venue for swimming events in 2008. Today, these venues are repurposed for public use, hosting events ranging from concerts to recreational activities, ensuring their legacy endures beyond the Olympics.
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The Time to Tap In is Now, But Here’s How to do so Consciously
Belize is at a pivotal moment in its technological evolution, as highlighted during the Digital Leadership Conference held in Belize City on November 13, 2025. Experts emphasized the urgent need for businesses and individuals to adapt to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global landscape. Dr. Dionne Chamberlain, Managing Director of Chamberlain Consulting Limited, revealed that while AI is projected to displace 70 million jobs globally by the end of 2026, it will simultaneously create over 300 million new roles, resulting in a net gain of 90 million jobs. This underscores the necessity for Belizeans to embrace reskilling and digital literacy. Maynor Larrieu, Managing Director at Avant Garde, noted that Belize is still in the early stages of AI adoption, particularly in sectors like Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), which employs over 20,000 Belizeans. Christian Junior, CEO of Rhics UK, stressed that effective training can turn AI from a threat into an opportunity. Sonia Ceballos, Managing Director at Socias Limited, highlighted AI’s potential to optimize repetitive tasks, enabling small businesses to focus on growth. However, the conference also addressed the environmental costs of AI, including its significant water and energy consumption. Susannah Hill, a sustainable computing consultant, warned that AI data centers consume millions of gallons of water daily, raising sustainability concerns. To mitigate these impacts, users are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as using chatbots judiciously, leveraging offline features, and advocating for sustainable AI development.
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Flash Flood Alert Issued as Rivers Rise Across Belize
Belize is grappling with escalating flood risks as torrential rains persist across the nation, prompting the government to issue a Flash Flood Alert. The warning, now in effect, covers inland West, central regions, the central coast, and inland southern areas of Belize. Authorities have identified critical flood-prone zones, including the Belize River at More Tomorrow and downstream communities, the Sibun River at Freetown Sibun, and the Sittee River at Kendal. The Golden Stream River at Hellgate in Region 11 is also under threat. Reports indicate that river levels are surging, with the Mopan River near Benque Viejo Town and the Macal River at the Vaca Facility already spilling over. The Belize River is nearing flood stage at More Tomorrow, while the Sibun River has surpassed flood levels. The Sittee River is at bankfull stage, signaling imminent overflow. High-risk zones marked red on the forecast map face the most severe danger, while orange areas have medium to high potential. Communities in lime-green-yellow zones are advised to remain vigilant despite lower risks. Officials are urging residents to stay updated on weather developments and avoid travel near rivers and low-lying areas. The situation underscores the urgent need for preparedness as the country braces for potential devastation.
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Bexon shooting claims life of mother of 2
A tragic incident unfolded in Bexon on the evening of November 12, resulting in the death of 35-year-old Finola McLauren. Emergency services were dispatched at around 8:17 p.m. following reports of a gunshot wound. Upon arrival, McLauren was discovered in the driver’s seat of a vehicle, showing no signs of life. Despite immediate life-saving efforts and transportation to a medical facility, she succumbed to her injuries. McLauren, a mother of two, leaves behind a heartbroken family, including her son and daughter. Her sisters, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed their profound grief and disbelief. One sister described McLauren as a vibrant and selfless individual, always ready to support her family and friends. The family is now calling for justice and an end to the violence that claimed her life. The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with some comments suggesting political motives, which the family vehemently denies. The community is united in their demand for a thorough investigation and accountability.
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Belize Slaps Five-Year Ban on Tree-Cutting Permits to Save Forests
In a decisive move to address forest degradation, the Belizean government has imposed a five-year moratorium on the issuance of Short-Term Forest Licenses and Petty Permits for tree cutting on national lands. Effective December 1, 2025, this sweeping measure aims to curb unsustainable extraction practices and protect the nation’s dwindling forest resources. The decision, spearheaded by the Minister in consultation with the Cabinet and supported by the Belize Forest Department, responds to alarming evidence of forest stock depletion, exacerbated by wildfires, illegal logging, and the overharvesting of young trees. While new permits on national lands will cease entirely, applications for tree harvesting on leased lands will face stricter scrutiny, prioritizing conservation. During the moratorium, the Forest Department will conduct a comprehensive assessment of forest stock, develop a National Forest Replenishment Plan, and promote sustainable alternatives like bamboo and reusable steel scaffolding. Officials emphasize that this pause will allow degraded forests to recover, enhance wildlife habitats, and bolster resilience against environmental threats, ultimately safeguarding Belize’s ecological and economic future.
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Free Vaccine Rollout Aims to Stop Deadly Pneumonia
In a significant public health initiative, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has introduced the PCV-13 vaccine, offering it free of charge at public health facilities nationwide. This campaign aims to safeguard the country’s most vulnerable populations—children and the elderly—from severe infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sinus diseases. Health authorities have underscored the urgency of this measure, citing studies that reveal 40% of healthy children and 10% of healthy adults carry the bacteria responsible for these illnesses. Dr. Liliane Middleton, a representative from the Ministry, highlighted the vaccine’s long-term efficacy, stating, ‘A single dose of PCV-13 provides lifelong protection. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect our families, communities, and ourselves.’ The World Health Organisation reports that pneumococcal diseases claim the lives of approximately 300,000 children under five annually, with the majority of fatalities occurring in developing nations. To mitigate this risk in Belize, the Ministry has ensured widespread accessibility to the vaccine, encouraging families to visit their nearest health center or mobile clinic to receive the immunization at no cost. Dr. Middleton reiterated, ‘The vaccine is available at all public health centers and mobile clinics. Anyone interested can simply request it, and it will be administered free of charge.’
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Putting the dual citizenship question to rest
A heated debate has emerged in St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the eligibility of two NDP candidates, who hold dual Canadian and Vincentian citizenship, to stand for parliamentary elections. The controversy stems from differing interpretations of constitutional provisions, particularly sections 25 and 26 of the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which outline qualifications and disqualifications for representatives and senators.
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Health Enters COP30 Climate Talks
As the world grapples with the escalating effects of climate change, the focus has often been on deforestation and carbon emissions. However, the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, has shifted the spotlight to a critical yet often overlooked aspect: human health. The conference kicked off with the launch of the Belém Health Action Plan, the first-ever global framework dedicated to safeguarding health in the face of climate change.
The Belém Health Action Plan outlines actionable steps for nations to fortify their health systems against the mounting pressures of climate-related challenges. These include extreme heatwaves, deteriorating air quality, food insecurity, and the rise of climate-sensitive diseases, all of which are increasingly affecting populations worldwide. Health systems are struggling to keep pace with these demands, underscoring the urgent need for robust adaptation strategies.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized that health has historically been sidelined in climate discussions. ‘For too long, health has been a footnote in climate negotiations,’ he stated. Echoing this sentiment, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell highlighted the intrinsic link between climate action and daily life priorities. ‘Humanity can only win this global climate fight if we connect stronger climate actions to people’s top priorities. And there are few higher priorities than our health,’ he remarked.
To bolster this initiative, over 35 philanthropic organizations have committed $300 million in funding. These resources will be directed toward addressing extreme heat, air pollution, and climate-sensitive infectious diseases. Additionally, the funds will enhance health data systems, enabling more effective emergency responses and the development of long-term resilience strategies.
The Belém Health Action Plan marks a pivotal moment in global climate policy, recognizing health as a cornerstone of climate adaptation. As nations work to implement its recommendations, the plan promises to reshape how the world addresses the intersection of climate change and public health.
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Josh Matthias Charged with Marrying Two Wives, Granted Bail
A 35-year-old man from Cassada Gardens, Josh Matthias, has been granted bail in a high-profile bigamy case. Matthias appeared before Magistrate Andrew Mighty earlier this week, where he was released on a $5,000 bail with no cash deposit required. The court imposed strict conditions for his release, including the provision of two sureties, the surrender of all travel documents, and a prohibition on contacting the alleged victim. Authorities claim that Matthias participated in a wedding ceremony with another woman at Fort James on April 9, 2025, despite still being legally married to his first wife. Following a thorough investigation, he was arrested and formally charged with bigamy. The case has been adjourned and is set to resume on December 17, 2025, as the legal proceedings continue.