Carib Scope

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  • Suriname en Indonesië willen samenwerking landbouw en visserij verder versterken

    Suriname en Indonesië willen samenwerking landbouw en visserij verder versterken

    In a significant diplomatic development, Indonesian Ambassador to Suriname Agus Priono and Suriname’s Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries Mike Noersalim have committed to expanding bilateral cooperation in agricultural sectors. The agreement emerged during a courtesy visit where both officials explored new opportunities across agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.

    Ambassador Priono emphasized the historical ties between the nations, expressing Indonesia’s commitment to deepening relations through knowledge transfer and technical support. He highlighted Indonesia’s extensive experience in fisheries—a sector employing substantial portions of the population—and referenced previous collaborative initiatives in technical assistance, livestock development, and aquaculture involving shrimp and tilapia farming. These projects faced delays due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and financial constraints.

    Looking forward, Indonesia identified multiple growth areas including capacity building, post-harvest processing, and blue economy initiatives focused on sustainable marine resource utilization. Suriname received an official invitation to participate in Indonesia’s Ocean Impact Summit on June 9th.

    Minister Noersalim acknowledged how Indonesian ancestors contributed to building Suriname’s agricultural foundation and expressed appreciation for past training programs provided by Indonesia. However, he noted current challenges including workforce shortages and technical staff deficits exacerbated by brain drain. The Surinamese government is consequently exploring simplified procedures for attracting foreign labor.

    Both parties emphasized aquaculture’s critical role in ensuring future fish supplies and potential collaboration in rice research—a sector where Indonesia possesses extensive expertise. Ambassador Priono confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is currently under review in Jakarta with efforts underway to accelerate its processing, alongside available scholarships and training programs from Indonesia.

    The meeting concluded with mutual commitment to intensifying cooperation for sustainable development of Suriname’s agricultural sector.

  • Government reviews Meta RD 2036 progress at Council of Ministers

    Government reviews Meta RD 2036 progress at Council of Ministers

    Santo Domingo – The Dominican government has reinforced its commitment to national economic development through the 56th Council of Ministers meeting, presided over by President Luis Abinader and Vice President Raquel Peña. The high-level gathering served as a strategic platform for evaluating the implementation progress of Meta RD 2036, the nation’s comprehensive roadmap for economic modernization.

    The session produced a detailed sector-by-sector assessment of the initiative’s advancements. Educational reforms have prioritized technical training and STEM scholarship programs to better align workforce capabilities with industrial requirements. The tourism sector has initiated measures to address sargassum management challenges while enhancing vocational preparation programs. Construction and infrastructure development have accelerated through permit streamlining processes and increased investment allocations.

    Free trade zones have intensified international promotion campaigns and developed specialized financial instruments to attract foreign investment. Concurrently, logistics infrastructure projects are advancing strategically to establish the Dominican Republic as a regional distribution center. Agricultural modernization efforts include productivity enhancement programs, avocado export support mechanisms, fortified food safety protocols, and dedicated investment funds for coffee and cocoa production.

    Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza characterized Meta RD 2036 as a foundational framework for public-private collaboration toward structural economic transformation. Private sector representatives endorsed the strategy as an effective partnership model delivering tangible results.

    In separate deliberations, the Council examined potential economic ramifications from Middle Eastern conflicts, particularly regarding global energy market instability. Officials confirmed the national budget incorporates RD$12 billion allocated for fuel subsidies, with supplementary funding available if required. Finance Minister Magín Díaz emphasized the nation’s robust macroeconomic position, citing nearly US$16 billion in international reserves, strong liquidity metrics, and flexible financing access as protective buffers against external economic shocks.

    The administration reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding vulnerable populations through social assistance programs while continuously monitoring global food and agricultural input prices. These protective measures, integrated with ongoing economic strategies, are designed to maintain stability and sustain growth momentum amid international uncertainties.

  • ICE agents detain multiple suspects in St. Croix raid amid nationwide immigration crackdown

    ICE agents detain multiple suspects in St. Croix raid amid nationwide immigration crackdown

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) executed a significant enforcement action in the U.S. Virgin Islands on March 19, 2026, as part of a broader nationwide initiative to address immigration violations. Tactical teams conducted a targeted operation in Christiansted, St. Croix, resulting in the detention of multiple individuals suspected of immigration-related offenses.

    The operation unfolded in a commercial area, specifically the parking lot of a local Jiffy Mart, where eyewitnesses captured video evidence showing specialized units moving with precision. The deployment of tactical teams indicates the operation involved potentially high-risk scenarios, though ICE authorities haven’t disclosed specific details about the suspects’ identities or alleged violations.

    This enforcement action aligns with the Department of Homeland Security’s ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and interior enforcement mechanisms. The geographical significance of targeting St. Croix, a U.S. territory in the Caribbean, highlights the expanded scope of immigration enforcement beyond the continental United States.

    Community responses have varied, with some residents expressing support for strengthened immigration controls while others voice concerns about the methods and timing of such operations. ICE officials emphasize that these operations prioritize individuals with criminal histories or those who have received final orders of removal, though specific details about this particular case remain undisclosed pending further investigation.

  • Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Recorded North of Antigua

    A moderate seismic event measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale was detected in the northern sector of the Leeward Islands on Thursday evening, as confirmed by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre. The tremor originated at precisely 6:46 p.m. local time, with its epicenter situated at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.

    Geographical data placed the quake’s location approximately 236 kilometers north-northwest of Antigua and Barbuda, 209 kilometers north of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, and 263 kilometers north of Brades, Montserrat. Initial assessments from regional authorities indicated no immediate reports of structural damage, injuries, or significant impacts on the affected islands.

    The Seismic Research Centre emphasized that their preliminary report was automatically generated through advanced computer algorithms specializing in seismic activity detection. Officials noted that detailed parameters of the event remain subject to revision as seismologists conduct comprehensive analysis of the geological data. The center maintains continuous monitoring of the region’s seismic activity through its network of detection equipment distributed throughout the Caribbean basin.

  • Grenada secures fisheries breakthrough

    Grenada secures fisheries breakthrough

    In a significant development for Grenada’s maritime economy, Economic Development Minister Lennox Andrews has announced the successful lifting of international restrictions that had threatened the nation’s fisheries exports to the United States. The prohibition under the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) has been officially suspended until December 31, 2029, following intensive regulatory reforms and compliance efforts.

    The breakthrough emerged from coordinated action between multiple government agencies and international partners. Minister Andrews revealed that a specialized task force worked meticulously to address compliance requirements, emphasizing that “achieving this goal was no easy task” and required “action with alacrity.” The minister particularly commended the Blue Economy team for their meticulous handling of the complex reapplication process, noting that improper submission would have jeopardized the entire effort.

    However, the approval comes with stringent conditions and ongoing oversight requirements. Andrews cautioned that NOAA officials retain authority to revoke the comparability finding if Grenada’s regulatory program fails to maintain applicable standards. The minister underscored the necessity of continuous improvement in environmental protections, specifically regarding minimizing incidental harm to marine mammals during commercial fishing operations.

    Concurrent with the announcement, Chief Fisheries Officer Nigel Gibbs outlined comprehensive measures being implemented to maintain compliance. These include redesigned vessel logbooks, mandatory marine mammal reporting forms, and specialized release kits for safe disentanglement of protected species. A significant gear transition from J-hooks to circle hooks is underway, substantially reducing internal injuries to non-target species.

    The Fisheries Division is advancing technological surveillance capabilities through a pilot program funded by Compete Caribbean. Approximately 20-30 vessels will participate in a fleet tracking initiative using vessel monitoring technology to enhance oversight of fishing locations and durations. Gibbs emphasized that accurate reporting—rather than penalty-free operations—remains the critical requirement, with data shared transparently with international bodies including ICCAT.

    While acknowledging current achievements meet minimum requirements, fisheries authorities recognize the need for continued evolution beyond baseline standards as the industry expands. The collective efforts represent Grenada’s commitment to balancing economic development with marine conservation priorities in its blue economy strategy.

  • Attorney General accepts Azruddin Mohamed’s payment of court costs in cash, some coins

    Attorney General accepts Azruddin Mohamed’s payment of court costs in cash, some coins

    In an extraordinary display of financial theatrics, prominent Guyanese businessmen Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed fulfilled a High Court monetary order by transporting approximately GY$900,500 in small denomination bills and coins using two wheelbarrows to the Attorney General’s Chambers on Thursday. The payment followed a formal warning from Attorney General Anil Nandlall that he would seek court enforcement if the costs related to lost extradition committal proceedings were not immediately settled.

    The delivery, which consisted primarily of low-value currency notes alongside coins up to the legal limit of GY$500, required government employees to remain until approximately 5:30 PM to complete the counting process. Nandlall confirmed via Facebook that public servants were significantly inconvenienced by the unusual payment method, noting that the Mohameds still owed a balance of GY$99,500 despite the elaborate display.

    Azruddin Mohamed, who leads the opposition WIN party and serves as Guyana’s Opposition Leader, explained to Demerara Waves Online News that the payment method was necessitated by banking restrictions imposed after the United States Treasury Department’s OFAC sanctions in June 2024. The sanctions, which alleged gold smuggling and tax evasion exceeding US$50 million, resulted in the revocation of the brothers’ foreign exchange license and the closure of their commercial bank accounts.

    Mohamed asserted the money originated from his child’s piggy bank, emphasizing his commitment to ‘honor the rules of the country’ despite the political tensions. He further revealed plans to appeal both the High Court and Court of Appeal decisions regarding alleged political bias in the extradition proceedings initiated by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond.

    The transaction occurred under the provisions of the Bank of Guyana Act, which establishes legal tender limitations for coin payments while imposing no restrictions on currency notes. Mohamed indicated he would return with additional currency notes to settle the outstanding balance, maintaining his stance that the payment spectacle highlighted the government’s contradictory acceptance of funds from sanctioned individuals despite previous warnings about associated risks.

  • Belizean Students in Cuba Are Not Ready to Come Home

    Belizean Students in Cuba Are Not Ready to Come Home

    Amid Cuba’s escalating economic and energy crisis, the Belizean government has confirmed that its 28 citizens pursuing medical education on the island have chosen to remain and complete their academic programs rather than return home prematurely. Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca disclosed that authorities maintain near-daily communication with the students through Belize’s embassy in Havana, with regular welfare checks confirming their safety and academic progress.

    The students, predominantly in advanced stages of medical training, have demonstrated remarkable commitment to their education despite Cuba’s severe fuel shortages and widespread power outages resulting from U.S. oil shipment restrictions imposed since February. Approximately twenty students are reportedly approaching graduation, making their decision to stay particularly significant for both their professional futures and Belize’s healthcare sector.

    Minister Fonseca emphasized that while the government respects the students’ determination to complete their studies, contingency plans remain activated for potential evacuation should conditions deteriorate further. “Should either the students or Cuban authorities indicate that repatriation becomes necessary, we stand ready to facilitate their immediate return,” Fonseca stated, underscoring the government’s balanced approach of monitoring without intervention unless requested.

    The situation highlights the complex interplay between international education partnerships and geopolitical tensions, with Caribbean nations navigating relationships while prioritizing citizen welfare. Belize’s measured response reflects both support for academic aspirations and preparedness for crisis management, setting a precedent for how smaller nations might address similar challenges involving overseas students in volatile regions.

  • Carol Foster’s Lens on Belize Comes to Life in “WILD 501” Exhibition

    Carol Foster’s Lens on Belize Comes to Life in “WILD 501” Exhibition

    A landmark photographic exhibition honoring the lifelong conservation work of visual storyteller Carol Foster has premiered, showcasing Belize’s ecological wonders through the lens of one of its most dedicated documentarians. “WILD 501” represents the culmination of Foster’s collaborative career with her late husband Richard Foster, featuring their internationally recognized nature photography and filmography that brought global attention to Central America’s vibrant ecosystems.

    The exhibition, curated by prominent Belizean artist Gilvano Swasey, serves as both an artistic tribute and historical archive, preserving decades of environmental storytelling that transformed international perceptions of Belize’s biodiversity. The Foster partnership began when Carol first encountered Belize through Richard’s descriptions, immediately recognizing the country as her permanent home and creative muse.

    “Our shared passion for both the natural world and each other created this incredible synergy,” Foster reflected. “We turned our personal fairytale into a mission to showcase Belize’s untouched beauty to worldwide audiences.”

    Beyond their artistic contributions, the Fosters played instrumental roles in conservation initiatives, including foundational support for the establishment of the Belize Zoo. Richard’s absence from the exhibition is acknowledged as profoundly felt, though Carol expresses confidence that returning their collective work to the nation through this comprehensive display fulfills their shared vision.

    “WILD 501” stands as both memorial and living legacy, ensuring future generations can experience Belize’s wilderness through the eyes of two of its most devoted advocates.

  • St Ignatius Welding Students Return from North Carolina Inspired and Empowered

    St Ignatius Welding Students Return from North Carolina Inspired and Empowered

    A cohort of seven exceptional students from St Ignatius High School has returned to Belize following an immersive ten-day educational expedition to North Carolina, reporting significantly enhanced professional confidence and broadened vocational aspirations in welding and non-destructive testing (NDT) disciplines.

    This transformative initiative, substantially funded by the STEM U Foundation, constitutes an integral component of an annual international exchange program designed to fortify technical education and industrial exposure for youth. Marking the second consecutive year of collaboration between the foundation and St Ignatius High School, the program specifically targets the advancement of STEM education opportunities.

    Principal Jeaneane Neal emphasized the program’s strategic focus on welding and NDT—technical domains historically characterized by male predominance. “STEM U Foundation has emerged as our premier sponsor for this pioneering initiative,” Neal stated. “This international exchange represents our sustained commitment to empowering St Ignatius students through specialized STEM pathways.”

    The delegation, comprising six female students and one male student, departed Belize on March 9th, returning with profoundly changed perspectives. Fourth-form participant Bettina Myers characterized the experience as both intellectually illuminating and professionally empowering. “Witnessing numerous female specialists excelling in their technical fields has profoundly motivated me to pursue advanced studies and ultimately establish my own enterprise,” Myers reflected.

    This industry immersion program provides hands-on technical training while simultaneously challenging traditional gender norms within industrial professions, potentially establishing new benchmarks for vocational education in Central America.

  • U-17 WC Morocco 2026 Qualifications : Our Grenadières humiliated by the United States [0-9] (video)

    U-17 WC Morocco 2026 Qualifications : Our Grenadières humiliated by the United States [0-9] (video)

    In a stunning display of football dominance, the United States U-17 Women’s National Team delivered a devastating 9-0 victory against Haiti during the CONCACAF qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. The match, played on March 19, 2026, at the Costa Rican Football Federation Stadium, showcased the overwhelming gap between the two squads as the Americans systematically dismantled their Caribbean opponents.

    The match began ominously for Haiti when defender Kaylee Mallebranche scored an own goal in the 5th minute, setting the tone for what would become a relentless American offensive. The US team’s attacking prowess was on full display as Giselle Aguilar recorded a remarkable hat-trick (25′, 45+1′, 52′), while teammates Grace Murra, Mak Whitham, Loradana Paletta, and Deus Stanislaus (who scored twice) completed the scoring rout. Jordyn Heathcock provided multiple assists, demonstrating exceptional playmaking ability throughout the match.

    Haitian coach Marc-Ogil Frenoy Baptiste attempted to shift momentum with strategic substitutions, including bringing in Krystel Châtelain for Mallebranche in the 17th minute and Samira Ductan for Laetitia Decombe at halftime. However, these changes proved insufficient against the American onslaught.

    The result leaves Haiti at the bottom of Group B with zero points from two matches, having conceded 12 goals while scoring only one. The United States and Puerto Rico lead the group with perfect records, though the Americans boast a staggering +28 goal difference. Haiti’s final opportunity for redemption comes against Bermuda on March 22, though World Cup qualification is now mathematically impossible.

    This performance underscores the developmental challenges facing Caribbean football programs against well-established soccer nations like the United States, which continues to demonstrate its depth of talent in women’s youth football.