The United Kingdom has ceased sharing intelligence with the United States regarding suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, citing concerns over the legality of US military strikes. According to sources familiar with the matter, the UK believes these strikes violate international law and does not wish to be complicit in what it considers illegal actions. This decision marks a significant departure from the UK’s traditionally close intelligence-sharing relationship with the US and reflects growing skepticism about the US military’s campaign in Latin America. For years, the UK, which controls several Caribbean territories housing intelligence assets, has assisted the US in locating suspected drug vessels for interdiction by the US Coast Guard. However, after the US began launching lethal strikes against these vessels in September, the UK grew concerned that its intelligence might be used to select targets for these attacks. The intelligence pause began over a month ago, coinciding with the UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk’s condemnation of the strikes as “extrajudicial killings.” The UK aligns with this assessment, sources told CNN. The British Embassy in Washington and the White House declined to comment, while a Pentagon official stated that the department does not discuss intelligence matters. The Trump administration has defended the strikes, arguing that suspected traffickers pose an imminent threat to Americans and are “enemy combatants” in an “armed conflict” with the US. However, legal experts and senior US defense officials have questioned the legality of the campaign, with some expressing concerns that the strikes violate international law. Canada, another key US ally, has also distanced itself from the military strikes while continuing its partnership with the US Coast Guard under Operation Caribbean.
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Grenada MSMEs benefit from UBEC Business Development Workshops
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission is actively bolstering the capabilities of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in key sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism, and waste management. This initiative is part of the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project, which aims to enhance the operational efficiency and grant application success of MSMEs through a series of practical, skills-based training workshops. The first two sessions, focusing on Grant Proposal Writing and Effective Record-Keeping, have already been completed, providing participants with essential tools for business management and growth. The training series continues throughout November and December, offering both in-person and hybrid sessions on topics such as financial management, continuity planning, marketing, and more. These workshops are designed to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of MSMEs within the Blue Economy, enabling them to apply for grant funding ranging from US$5,000 to $25,000 under the UBEC Regional MSME Matching Grants Programme. The application deadline for grant funding is Friday, 21 November 2025, at 11:59 pm. MSMEs are encouraged to take advantage of these training opportunities to enhance their business skills and secure funding for expansion, innovation, and sustainability efforts.
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Cuban ambassador extends warm wishes from President Díaz-Canel to the President of Dominica in celebration of Independence Day.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Sylvanie Burton of the Commonwealth of Dominica hosted Cuban Ambassador Miguel Fraga on November 11, 2025, to bolster the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The meeting, held in a cordial atmosphere, underscored the shared commitment to mutual respect and solidarity. Ambassador Fraga delivered an official message from Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, congratulating Dominica on its 47th anniversary of independence. President Burton expressed her gratitude and lauded the robust bilateral relationship, particularly in healthcare and human resource development. The discussion also touched on Cuba’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa, with Ambassador Fraga noting the absence of fatalities due to effective preventative measures, despite significant material damage. Additionally, the Cuban diplomat thanked President Burton for her advocacy at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where she called for an end to the U.S. economic blockade against Cuba. The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their dedication to deepening their historic ties.
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All stars of the arts take the stage at NIFCA Performing Arts Gala
The National Cultural Foundation (NCF) is poised to deliver an extraordinary evening of artistic brilliance with the NIFCA Performing Arts Gala, scheduled for Sunday, November 16, at 6 p.m. at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium. This grand finale of the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA) will spotlight Barbados’ finest talents in dance, music, theatre, and literary arts. The event will predominantly feature Gold Awardees from the 2025 NIFCA season, alongside select Silver Award winners and the top Gold Award recipient in Literary Arts. These performers, celebrated for their originality, skill, and passion, promise to captivate audiences with their exceptional artistry. Highlights include performances by Pearl’s Dance Academy, Wesley Hall Junior School, Dimension Elite, Lumination Shift, Bim Cheer Federation, and Dancin’ Africa. Musical acts will feature the Christ Church Foundation School Steel Orchestra, Skyy Dowridge, Nikhyl Burnett, Damario Foster, Kenaz Walker, St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Band, ZZ Cumberbatch, and the St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Choir. Theatre enthusiasts can anticipate appearances by Akil Ifill & Tiffani Williams, Nakita Thomas of Northern Lights Drama Group, and Emmanuel Charles, while Roseann Pile, the Literary Arts winner, will also grace the stage. Odane Bartley will present a unique mixed-discipline performance, bridging various artistic forms. The NIFCA Performing Arts Gala is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the festival season, celebrating creativity, dedication, and national pride. From vibrant youth groups to seasoned artists, the event embodies the spirit and talent that define Barbados’ cultural heritage. Tickets are priced at $40 for adults and $20 for children, available at official box offices island-wide, including NU Look (Bridgetown), Emerald City (Six Roads), Carlton Supermarket (Black Rock), A&B Music Supplies (Wildey), SmartStore (Limegrove & Welches), Ah Touch of Class (Bridgetown & Speightstown), and CS Pharmacy (Bridgetown). Online purchases can be made at www.ticketpal.com. Under the theme “The Tradition of Excellence Continues,” the 2025 NIFCA Performing Arts Gala promises to be an unforgettable celebration of artistic mastery and cultural pride.
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China International Import Expo breekt records en sluit succesvol af
The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE), held in Shanghai, concluded on November 10 with a record-breaking $83.5 billion in intended trade deals, marking a 4.4% increase from the previous year. This announcement was made by Wu Zhengping, Deputy Director of the CIIE Bureau, during a press conference following the six-day event. The expo, which featured 4,108 participating companies and a total exhibition area of 367,000 square meters, set new benchmarks in both scale and participation. Among the exhibitors were 290 Fortune 500 companies and 180 multinational corporations that have participated in all eight editions of the CIIE. This year, 461 new products, technologies, and services were introduced, slightly surpassing the 450 innovations showcased in 2024. Participating companies have already secured contracts for approximately 80,000 square meters of exhibition space for the 9th CIIE, scheduled for November next year. The CIIE serves as a vital platform for multinational companies to showcase advanced technologies and exchange ideas to better adapt to the rapidly evolving Chinese market. Wu Zhengping emphasized that China is not only a vast consumer market but also a partner that values collaboration and innovation. Senior representatives from participating companies, such as Jorg Buchheim of the German Webasto Group and Andreas Renulf of Hexagon AB, highlighted the importance of the CIIE in gaining insights for future innovations and praised China’s market dynamics and openness to new technologies. The expo also reflects China’s efforts to further open its economy, as noted by Jacky Zou of KPMG China, who referenced the recent 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) promoting institutional openness and international trade rules. The event demonstrated growing confidence among international investors in China, with Bill Winters, CEO of Standard Chartered, emphasizing the positive impact of China’s ongoing openness and economic growth on global cooperation. China’s vast domestic market continues to be a powerful driver for international trade and consumption, with opportunities for American companies in sectors ranging from technology and agriculture to specialized products like ginseng, pet food, and wine. The expansion of China’s visa-free policy has facilitated an influx of foreign tourists, further stimulating consumption. During the CIIE, China Daily launched the International Communication Initiative to promote exports to China and shopping in China, aiming to enhance the visibility of the Chinese market globally and foster collaboration. According to data from Chinese customs, imports in October rose by 1.4% year-on-year, marking the fifth consecutive month of growth. Improved tax refund and consumption policies in China are stimulating both domestic consumers and foreign visitors, as noted by researcher Chen Jianwei of the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing. International companies like Pernod Ricard and Tapestry Inc. are investing heavily in expanding their presence in China, driven by increasing demand for premium products and the dynamism of the Chinese market. These optimistic sentiments align with China’s policy goals to strengthen the national market and sustainably stimulate economic growth, as outlined in the recent communique of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. For many foreign visitors, shopping in China is more than just consumption; it is a cultural experience where tradition and innovation converge, as reported by China Daily’s Rochelle Beiersdorfer.
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Antiguan Student Resa B. Nelson Named 2026 Caribbean Rhodes Scholar
Resa B. Nelson, a 21-year-old student from Antigua, has been awarded the prestigious title of 2026 Caribbean Rhodes Scholar. The announcement was made in Barbados yesterday, following an intense selection process involving nine regional finalists. Nelson, who will pursue a Master’s in Biology by Research at the University of Oxford, expressed her deep gratitude and commitment to using this opportunity to benefit the Caribbean region. ‘I want to do amazing work that helps the Caribbean and its people,’ she said, emphasizing her focus on addressing critical needs in biosciences. Nelson also highlighted the significance of her achievement for Afro-Caribbean representation, particularly in the field of cell biology. Meanwhile, Lianna Williams, the sole Barbadian finalist, shared her aspirations to leverage economics to develop stronger social policies for Barbados and the wider Caribbean, tackling issues like youth violence, income inequality, and rising living costs.
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Roadworks Underway in Seatons
In a significant move to enhance local infrastructure, road improvement works are currently underway in Seatons today. This initiative is a key component of a larger, community-wide effort to upgrade and modernize essential public facilities. The ongoing project aims to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure smoother transportation for residents and visitors alike. Local authorities have emphasized that these upgrades are part of a long-term strategy to bolster the region’s infrastructure, making it more resilient and efficient. The works are expected to continue for several weeks, with temporary traffic diversions in place to minimize disruption. Residents have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly and stay updated on progress through official channels.
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Major Caribbean insurance merger announced as General Accident and Beacon join forces
In a landmark corporate maneuver, General Accident Insurance Company (Jamaica) Limited (JSE: GENAC) and Beacon Insurance Company Limited have announced their merger, aiming to create a dominant insurance entity across the Caribbean. The strategic acquisition, finalized on October 31, 2025, by Musson (Jamaica) Limited, General Accident’s parent company, will see Beacon Insurance operate as a subsidiary under General Accident, pending regulatory approvals. This merger is poised to significantly bolster General Accident’s market reach, particularly in Trinidad and Barbados, while expanding its footprint into new territories such as Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent. With annual gross written premiums surpassing J$32 billion, General Accident’s influence continues to grow. Despite the merger, Beacon will maintain its operational independence under its established brands in Trinidad and Barbados, with its current leadership, including CEO Christopher Woodhams, remaining intact. Woodhams will report directly to Sharon Donaldson, Group CEO of General Accident, and will oversee operations for both brands in Trinidad. Additionally, Christian Hadeed, a director of Beacon, alongside Woodhams, will join the board of General Accident, with the Hadeed family becoming minority shareholders in the newly formed entity. Gerald Hadeed, founder of Beacon, expressed confidence in the merger, highlighting shared insurance principles and a commitment to client service. P.B. Scott, Chairman of General Accident, lauded the partnership, emphasizing the potential to create a robust platform across the Caribbean and enhance service delivery for clients of both companies.
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GFA launches Player Identification drive for Talent Development Scheme
The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has announced the launch of a comprehensive Player Identification initiative as a pivotal element of its Talent Development Scheme (TDS). This strategic programme aims to systematically scout and identify the most promising young male footballers across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, ensuring the sustained growth of future youth national teams. The initiative will initially focus on boys born in 2012 and 2013, targeting aspiring athletes at a formative stage of their development. The primary goals of this rigorous evaluation process are to uncover emerging talent and foster high-quality player development. Successful candidates will be integrated into the GFA TDS programme, which offers structured pathways for progression into youth national teams and opportunities for educational scholarships and professional football careers. A GFA spokesperson emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, ‘This systematic identification drive is a crucial investment in the future of Grenadian football. By focusing on early talent recognition and providing structured development within the TDS framework, we are building a sustainable pipeline of players capable of excelling on regional and international stages.’ The GFA has urged parents, guardians, and youth coaches to prepare eligible players for the upcoming scouting events across the tri-island state. Further details regarding screening dates and locations will be announced soon through official GFA channels.
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PM’s brother-in-law gets contract for $40,000 monthly
A significant controversy has erupted in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) over a lucrative government contract awarded to Cecil Harris, the brother-in-law of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. Harris, a highly qualified civil engineer with extensive experience in law and project management, is reportedly earning EC$40,000 monthly as the project manager for the Taiwanese-funded US$125 million Strengthening Health Resilience Project. This project includes the construction of a 135-bed hospital in Arnos Vale, comprehensive health system reforms, and the management of consultants.