The Dominican Republic has successfully concluded its humanitarian aid mission, Operation ‘Caribbean Solidarity,’ delivering critical supplies to Jamaica and Cuba in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Spearheaded by President Luis Abinader, the initiative underscores the nation’s dedication to regional solidarity and disaster response. Coordinated by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Public Health, alongside DASAC and PROMESE/CAL, the operation ensured a rapid and efficient distribution of aid. Utilizing Air Force and Navy resources, the Dominican Republic transported essential items such as food, medicine, mattresses, mosquito nets, and hygiene kits. These supplies were received by local authorities and promptly distributed to the most vulnerable communities in both countries. Operation ‘Caribbean Solidarity’ marks a significant achievement in the Dominican Republic’s foreign and defense policies, showcasing its enhanced capacity to mobilize humanitarian and logistical support across the Caribbean. The government highlighted that this effort not only reinforces the nation’s leadership in regional cooperation but also reaffirms its commitment to fostering peace, solidarity, and integration within the Caribbean.
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St. Lucians vote for a new government on Dec. 1
St. Lucia is set to hold a general election on December 1, 2025, nearly a year ahead of the constitutionally mandated date in November 2026. Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre announced the decision during a national broadcast on Sunday, revealing that he had advised Governor General Errol Charles to dissolve Parliament on November 10. Nomination Day is scheduled for November 21. Pierre emphasized that the decision was driven by confidence in his administration’s achievements and the need to continue governing effectively. The last election was held on July 26, 2021, with Parliament convening in August of that year. Under the St. Lucia Constitution, the election is constitutionally due within three months of the first parliamentary sitting, which occurred on August 12, 2021. Pierre highlighted significant economic improvements under his leadership, including a reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio from 81.5% in 2021 to 73.5% in 2024, and a 700% decrease in outstanding payables to local suppliers. He also noted the successful conclusion of negotiations with public servants and the provision of a Christmas bonus. The main opposition, the United Workers Party (UWP), led by Allen Chastanet, welcomed the announcement, expressing readiness to contest the election. Chastanet aims to reverse the UWP’s 13-4 defeat in the 2021 election, where two former UWP members won as independents and later supported the ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP). Both parties held rallies on Sunday, with the SLP in Castries and the UWP in Anse La Raye, signaling the start of an intense campaign period.
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Election day announced as December 1, 2025
In a significant national announcement on November 9, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre revealed that the next general election in Saint Lucia will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025. The Prime Minister also designated Monday, November 21, 2025, as Nomination Day, marking the official start of the electoral process. Furthermore, Pierre disclosed that he has advised the Governor General to dissolve Parliament on Monday, November 10, 2025, paving the way for the upcoming elections. The announcement was made during a comprehensive radio and television address to the nation. Prime Minister Pierre, who led the Saint Lucia Labour Party to a decisive 13-4 victory in the July 2021 general election, emphasized the importance of a smooth and transparent electoral process. This announcement sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Saint Lucia’s political landscape, as the nation prepares to choose its next government.
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Economy : Critical deficit of nearly US$400 million for Haiti’s recovery
The Haitian government, in partnership with key development organizations including the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, the European Union, and the United Nations, has released an updated version of the Rapid Impact Assessment of the Crisis (RCIA) and its accompanying investment plan. This revision, necessitated by the evolving security landscape since the plan’s initial release in December 2024, aims to ensure the relevance and feasibility of Haiti’s recovery efforts. Originally valued at $1.6 billion, the updated plan now estimates a total funding requirement of $644 million for the period 2026–2027. However, with the national budget and existing donor commitments covering only about half of this amount, a critical funding gap of $364 million has emerged, threatening the implementation of priority recovery initiatives. This shortfall highlights the pressing need for enhanced donor coordination and innovative financing mechanisms to support Haiti’s transition to stability. Anne-Lucie Lefebvre, World Bank Country Manager for Haiti, emphasized the importance of aligning resources with critical priorities, stating that improved security conditions do not diminish the assessment’s relevance but rather reinforce its role in restoring basic services, infrastructure, and livelihoods in gang-liberated areas. The establishment of the Gang Suppression Force by the Security Council and the creation of the United Nations Support Office in Haiti are seen as pivotal steps toward restoring security and stability. Ariel Pino, Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator in Haiti, noted that these measures reflect a shared commitment to addressing Haiti’s multifaceted challenges. The RCIA and investment plan focus on the Port-au-Prince metropolitan region, prioritizing economic recovery, governance, infrastructure, social protection, and the rule of law. All proposed programs have been rigorously assessed for feasibility, considering physical access and operational capacity constraints. Additionally, the Crisis Recovery Framework (CRF) has been developed to streamline planning, coordination, and monitoring of recovery activities, ensuring transparent oversight of investments.
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Dominican Republic assumes presidency of Latin American Civil Aviation Commission
In a significant development for regional aviation, the Dominican Republic has been elected to preside over the Executive Committee of the Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (CLAC). This decision was made during the XXVI Ordinary Assembly of the organization, where Héctor Porcella, President of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (JAC), was chosen to lead the committee. The vice-presidencies will be held by Chile, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Panama, reflecting a diverse leadership structure. This appointment underscores the Dominican Republic’s growing influence in the civil aviation sector and its commitment to fostering air connectivity and collaboration across Latin America and the Caribbean. Established in 1973, CLAC serves as a unifying platform for civil aviation authorities in the region, aiming to harmonize aeronautical policies and enhance coordination. With this new role, the Dominican Republic is poised to drive strategic initiatives that will shape the future of air transport and regional integration.
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Cruise passengers rescued after catamaran sinks in Samaná Bay
A tourist catamaran carrying 55 passengers capsized in Samaná Bay on Sunday, sparking widespread concern over maritime safety. The vessel was transporting individuals from a cruise ship that had been rerouted to the area due to severe weather conditions. While no fatalities were reported, several passengers sustained minor injuries, according to initial accounts. The incident has prompted calls for a thorough investigation to uncover the root causes of the accident. Prominent producer and communicator Iván Ruiz highlighted the rough sea conditions and raised questions about potential contributing factors, such as structural flaws, overcapacity, or the adverse weather that forced the cruise ship’s diversion. Ruiz also urged authorities to enhance maritime safety regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As of now, local officials have yet to issue an official statement regarding the event.
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Dominican talent captures two bronzes at WorldSkills
In a remarkable display of technical prowess, the Dominican Republic has achieved a significant milestone at the WorldSkills Americas Santiago 2025 in Chile. The National Institute of Professional Technical Training (INFOTEP) secured two bronze medals, underscoring the nation’s growing expertise in vocational training and skill development. The medals were awarded to young talents in the culinary field: Frandy Romero from Higüey in the Cooking category and Natacha Batista from Santo Domingo in Pastry and Confectionery. Both honed their skills at INFOTEP’s specialized training centers, with Romero attending the Hotel, Gastronomy, and Pastry School, and Batista training at the Metropolitan Regional’s Bakery and Pastry Workshop. INFOTEP’s Director General, Rafael Santos Badía, emphasized that these achievements reflect the institution’s dedication to enhancing practical skills and fostering human talent, which contributes to national productivity. The Dominican delegation, comprising over 400 participants from 20 countries, competed across 25 specialized areas, including Cybersecurity, Web Design, and IT Network Administration. The team received strategic support from partners like Banco Popular and Caribbean Xam. Additionally, the Dominican Republic has been chosen to host the next WorldSkills Americas General Assembly, further cementing INFOTEP’s leadership and the country’s commitment to advancing technical education in the region.
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Politic : Fruitful discussions with the European Union
During the CELAC/European Union Summit, Haitian Foreign Minister Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste engaged in productive talks with Ms. Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. The discussions centered on Haiti’s security challenges and the potential for enhanced international collaboration to bolster national initiatives. Minister Jean-Baptiste highlighted several critical areas, including the necessity to reinforce the Basket Fund for Security, the importance of increased contributions from international partners, and the urgent requirement for essential equipment to expedite on-ground actions. Additionally, the officials explored the revival and strengthening of short- and medium-term humanitarian projects aimed at restoring normalcy in vulnerable communities. Ms. Kallas expressed her solidarity with Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The meeting was marked by a spirit of mutual understanding and a renewed dedication to fostering robust cooperation between Haiti and the European Union.
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Tijdelijke wegafsluitingen om defiléoefeningen
In preparation for the grand parade and ceremonial celebrations scheduled for November 25, the Suriname National Army, the Suriname Police Corps (KPS), and other armed and security forces will conduct a series of rehearsals at various locations in the coming days. These practice sessions will necessitate temporary road closures and diversions in and around the designated areas. The KPS has announced that the rehearsals will primarily take place in the early morning, starting at 7:00 AM, on the following dates: Wednesday, November 12; Friday, November 14; Monday, November 17; Thursday, November 20; and Saturday, November 22, 2025. Specific locations include the Police Academy on Commewijne Street for the initial rehearsals, with the joint rehearsal (pre-general) with the National Army occurring at the Police Academy on November 20. The final general rehearsal, involving both the National Army and the Police Corps, will be held at the KKF grounds on November 22, with road closures and diversions around the Kernkampweg area. The KPS has urged all road users to cooperate by adhering to traffic signs and police instructions to ensure the smooth execution of these rehearsals.
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Politic : Strengthening the protection of Haitian consumers
In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, James Monazard, Haiti’s Minister of Commerce and Industry (MCI), inaugurated a four-day training workshop last week. The event targeted inspectors from the departmental directorates of the Grand North region, marking a pivotal step in modernizing quality control mechanisms and combating unfair business practices. The training, led by specialists from various technical directorates within the Ministry, aimed to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of field operations, particularly in addressing non-compliant products and abusive business practices. Jean Sony Pierre, Coordinator of the Departmental Directorates Coordination Unit (UCDD), underscored the importance of better-trained and well-equipped inspectors in delivering reliable and transparent services to the public. Inspectors from the North, Northeast, Northwest, Artibonite, and Centre departments participated in technical sessions focused on commercial and quality inspection techniques, legal metrology, and consumer protection laws. The initiative seeks to empower inspectors to meet public expectations regarding product safety and quality. Pierre also praised the trainers’ dedication and the collaborative efforts of the departmental directorates, highlighting the importance of continuing education in leadership. This workshop represents a crucial milestone in Haiti’s ongoing efforts to strengthen consumer protection nationwide.