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  • Sky High Dominicana launches direct flights to Suriname

    Sky High Dominicana launches direct flights to Suriname

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant expansion of Caribbean aviation networks, Sky High Dominicana has unveiled plans to establish a new direct air corridor connecting Santo Domingo with Paramaribo, Suriname. Scheduled to commence operations on April 16, 2026, this pioneering route will link Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) with Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM), marking the first direct connection between these two nations.

    The strategic initiative represents a calculated expansion of the airline’s regional footprint, designed to enhance mobility throughout the Caribbean and South American regions. Suriname, renowned for its pristine rainforests and multicultural heritage, stands to gain substantial economic benefits through accelerated tourism inflows and strengthened commercial partnerships with the Dominican Republic.

    Beyond this commercial aviation development, Sky High Dominicana continues to diversify its aviation portfolio. The carrier reported robust growth across multiple business segments, including a 33% year-over-year increase in cargo operations through its subsidiary Sky High Aviation Services Corp., which transported over 8,000 tons of freight in 2025. Simultaneously, the airline is expanding its premium private charter services utilizing the long-range Gulfstream GV aircraft, capable of accommodating up to 17 passengers on intercontinental executive flights.

    With fifteen years of operational experience and certifications from both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the airline maintains an extensive network throughout the Americas. Company executives emphasized that the Suriname route alignment supports broader objectives of fostering economic development, tourism expansion, and enhanced regional integration for the Dominican Republic.

  • Paus richt zich rechtstreeks tot verantwoordelijken voor oorlog Midden-Oosten

    Paus richt zich rechtstreeks tot verantwoordelijken voor oorlog Midden-Oosten

    In his most forceful address to date, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful plea for immediate ceasefire in the escalating Middle East conflict during his traditional Sunday Angelus blessing at St. Peter’s Square. The first American-born pontiff in Vatican history directly challenged those responsible for initiating hostilities while maintaining the Holy See’s tradition of diplomatic neutrality.

    The pontiff appealed explicitly to conflict architects without naming specific nations: “On behalf of Middle Eastern Christians and all people of good will, I implore those governing this conflict to cease fire and reopen diplomatic channels. Violence can never achieve the justice, stability and peace that people deserve.” Though avoiding direct reference to the United States or Israel, Leo XIV made clear allusions to the devastating rocket attack on an Iranian elementary school that claimed 165 lives, predominantly children, during the conflict’s initial phase.

    Vatican diplomacy has amplified humanitarian concerns through striking visual advocacy. L’Osservatore Romano, the Holy See’s official newspaper, recently featured aerial photography of mass graves prepared for young victims in Minab under the headline “The Face of War.” The Pope expressed particular anguish over attacks targeting educational institutions, medical facilities, and residential centers while highlighting the deteriorating situation in Lebanon where Christian communities face existential threats.

    Despite maintaining measured rhetoric during the conflict’s first two weeks, Vatican leadership has shown increasing divergence in their responses. Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington denounced the war as “morally indefensible,” while Chicago’s Cardinal Blase Cupich condemned White House social media strategies incorporating video game imagery as “disgusting.” Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin rejected Washington’s “preventive war” justification while confirming the Holy See maintains communication channels with all parties.

    The Pope’s carefully calibrated approach reflects both spiritual stewardship and geopolitical pragmatism, balancing moral authority with the Vatican’s historical neutrality despite mounting humanitarian catastrophes across the region.

  • ABHTA Hosts Kitchen Management Essentials Training to Strengthen Operational Excellence in Professional Kitchens

    ABHTA Hosts Kitchen Management Essentials Training to Strengthen Operational Excellence in Professional Kitchens

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has successfully concluded an intensive professional development program focused on elevating kitchen management standards within the nation’s hospitality sector. The two-day workshop, ‘Kitchen Management Essentials: People, Systems & Service,’ took place March 11-12, 2026, at the Muriel O’Mard Campus, bringing together culinary professionals from across the industry.

    Under the expert guidance of Chef Olvanah Richardson, Executive Sous Chef at Blue Waters Resort and Spa with over 25 years of industry expertise, participants engaged in comprehensive training designed to bridge culinary artistry with operational leadership. The curriculum addressed critical components of kitchen management including workflow optimization, structured employee onboarding protocols, inventory control systems, and effective team leadership strategies.

    The program incorporated established operational frameworks such as the 5S methodology for kitchen organization and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) management systems. These approaches provide structured methods for reducing waste, enhancing safety protocols, and improving overall service efficiency in professional kitchen environments.

    Interactive sessions featured collaborative problem-solving exercises and discussions emphasizing the crucial role of communication, standardized procedures, and teamwork in achieving operational excellence. Chef Richardson highlighted the importance of aligning departmental objectives while maintaining clear operational guidelines to address challenges effectively.

    ‘Congratulations to all our industry professionals. I am truly encouraged by each participant’s dedication,’ stated Chef Richardson, who further emphasized the value of ongoing training initiatives and mentorship programs within Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality landscape.

    Shantel Francis, Chef de Partie at Barbuda Ocean Club, shared her transformative learning experience: ‘The sessions provided invaluable insights into kitchen organization and staff development. My key takeaway was the significance of cultivating continuous improvement cultures through targeted training and constructive feedback mechanisms.’

    The program concluded with certificate presentations to participants who successfully completed the training, recognizing their commitment to professional advancement and operational excellence. ABHTA reaffirmed its dedication to workforce development through ongoing workshops, certification programs, and educational resources that support best practices across the tourism industry.

    As the collective voice of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality sector, ABHTA continues to advocate for industry growth through education, promotion, and strategic development initiatives that enhance both visitor experiences and economic benefits for the nation.

  • Column: De ziel die zich reinigt terwijl de wereld beweegt

    Column: De ziel die zich reinigt terwijl de wereld beweegt

    In a small Afghan home, Mahdi applies fresh paint to his walls in preparation for Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Each brushstroke represents more than mere decoration—it embodies a profound act of hope and psychological resistance against the surrounding conflict. While millions worldwide observe Ramadan’s conclusion and Hindus commence Navratri celebrations, this Afghan civilian engages in his own ritual of renewal, determined to create beauty amidst devastation.

    Afghanistan’s northern and eastern regions continue to experience regular security incidents, with nighttime explosions and weapon fire frequently disrupting the silence. Yet Mahdi persists in his symbolic preparation for spring, consciously choosing creation over destruction. His painting ritual occurs against a backdrop where children cannot safely play outdoors and mothers mourn lost family members.

    The parallel observances of Nowruz, Ramadan, and Navratri across different cultures share common themes of spiritual purification and renewal. These traditions demonstrate humanity’s universal yearning for connection with the divine and the persistent hope for better tomorrows. From Suriname’s stability to Afghanistan’s conflict zones, people share fundamental desires for security, peaceful meals, and uninterrupted prayer.

    Mahdi’s painting represents what experts might describe as ‘everyday resistance’—a psychological defense mechanism against trauma through normalizing rituals. His actions demonstrate how civilians maintain agency in conflict zones through cultural preservation and domestic practices that assert life over death.

    This story invites global reflection on the privilege of peace and security experienced in many societies, reminding us that millions worldwide lack these basic necessities. The article calls for greater awareness and solidarity with those maintaining hope amid adversity, emphasizing that small acts of courage collectively contribute to healing fractured communities.

  • Gajadien positief over college van bestuur OM, maar kritisch op termijn pg

    Gajadien positief over college van bestuur OM, maar kritisch op termijn pg

    Suriname’s National Assembly is poised to deliberate on significant judicial reforms this afternoon, with VHP parliamentary leader Asis Gajadien expressing measured support for key proposals while raising constitutional concerns about others.

    In an exclusive interview with Starnieuws, Gajadien endorsed the establishment of a supervisory board for the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM), characterizing the move as potentially strengthening organizational effectiveness and prosecutorial authority. “A properly functioning Public Prosecutor’s Office is fundamental to our rule of law,” Gajadien stated, emphasizing that the proposed governance college could reinforce structural integrity within the judicial institution.

    The parliamentarian simultaneously voiced strong support for implementing cassation jurisprudence in Suriname’s legal system, noting that such appellate mechanisms would enhance legal certainty, foster judicial development, and provide improved protection for citizens against potential judicial errors.

    However, Gajadien struck a cautionary tone regarding proposed five-year term appointments for the Prosecutor-General. He articulated constitutional concerns that fixed-term mandates could compromise the office’s independence, which he described as “a crucial safeguard within our criminal justice proceedings.” The VHP leader emphasized that “the rule of law is not a laboratory where we experiment with its foundations,” indicating his party’s intention to scrutinize this particular aspect of the reform package.

    Gajadien advocated for methodical implementation of judicial reforms, stating: “We can improve the system, but we must not disrupt it simultaneously. Reform yes, but without shocks.” The parliamentarian is expected to elaborate further on these positions during his scheduled address in the National Assembly later today.

  • Dominican Republic highlights gender equality progress at UN Forum

    Dominican Republic highlights gender equality progress at UN Forum

    NEW YORK – At the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, Dominican Republic representative Gloria Reyes presented the nation’s significant advancements in gender equality and women’s empowerment. The high-level forum, convened at United Nations headquarters, served as a platform for Reyes to outline the country’s institutional reforms and policy achievements in creating more equitable justice systems.

    Reyes framed her address within the historical context of Minerva Mirabal’s centenary birth anniversary, noting how Mirabal’s legacy inspired the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. While acknowledging these symbolic milestones, the minister confronted the persistent global challenges of gender-based violence and discrimination, urging strengthened institutional protections for women and girls worldwide.

    The Dominican justice system’s innovative approaches received particular emphasis, including the Judiciary’s Gender Equality Policy, the Justice and Gender Observatory, and enhanced legal aid services for violence survivors. These institutional mechanisms represent the government’s comprehensive strategy to embed gender sensitivity throughout the legal framework.

    Preceding the international forum, the Ministry of Women conducted extensive domestic consultations with approximately 3,800 women to assess rights awareness and justice accessibility. Reyes also highlighted protections for older women through Law 352-98 and programs administered by the National Council for the Elderly, revealing that 59,000 solidarity pensions had been distributed between 2020-2024, with an additional 7,925 subsidized pensions—predominantly to women—issued in early 2025.

    Economic empowerment initiatives featured prominently in the delegation’s presentation, particularly the Supérate program benefiting 1.5 million families alongside specialized training and entrepreneurship programs that have supported over 30,000 women. During interactive sessions, the Dominican delegation engaged with international partners including the European Union and Canada on policies regarding care systems, violence prevention, and political participation. Reyes concluded by reaffirming the nation’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities and strengthening inclusive justice systems.

  • Football : Towards strengthened collaboration between the MJSAC and the FHF

    Football : Towards strengthened collaboration between the MJSAC and the FHF

    In a significant development for Haitian football, Minister of Youth, Sports and Civic Action Pythagore Dumas convened with Haitian Football Federation (FHF) leadership on March 13, 2026, marking the beginning of a strengthened institutional collaboration. The high-level meeting at FHF headquarters established frameworks for enhanced cooperation between governmental sports authorities and the nation’s football governing body.

    Minister Dumas, accompanied by his Chief of Staff Innocent Joseph and Sports Centers Coordinator Jean Roland Dartiguenave, engaged in substantive discussions with FHF Normalization Committee member Gally Amazan and Secretary General Patrick Massenat. The dialogue centered on comprehensive support mechanisms for Haiti’s national football programs across all competitive levels.

    The government formally committed to optimizing preparation for the senior men’s squad’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Minister Dumas conveying Prime Minister Fils-Aimé’s ambition for the Grenadiers to surpass group stage expectations. “Our collective aspiration extends beyond preliminary round participation—we envision a profound World Cup journey potentially culminating in final stage contention,” Dumas declared.

    Operational enhancements include establishing a dedicated communication channel for streamlined coordination between the Ministry and FHF, ensuring responsive support for all national teams. The government additionally pledged to facilitate the under-17 team’s month-long training camp in Brazil ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.

    The Federation disclosed FIFA’s advancement of the FIFA Arena initiative, which will establish four children’s football pitches across selected Haitian departments. This global project promotes equitable sporting access through construction of over 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide, with location identification proceedings currently underway.

    Minister Dumas concluded by emphasizing the government’s ongoing commitment to restoring national security, recognizing this as fundamental to enabling future home matches for Haitian national teams on domestic soil.

  • Politic : Strengthening consumer protection

    Politic : Strengthening consumer protection

    In commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, Haitian Commerce and Industry Minister James Monazar has announced comprehensive measures to strengthen consumer protection frameworks and market oversight mechanisms. The observance, themed ‘Safe Products, Confident Consumers,’ served as a platform to highlight critical gaps in product safety and labeling practices throughout Haiti’s national market.

    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) identified concerning patterns of non-compliant products circulating in Haitian markets, including items lacking proper labeling, origin identification, and clear expiration dates. Minister Monazar characterized consumer protection as both a public health imperative and an economic development priority, emphasizing that market transparency directly impacts national wellbeing.

    A cornerstone of the enhanced protection framework is the March 11, 2020 Decree, which establishes legal requirements for product safety, service quality, fair business practices, and consumer rights enforcement. The legislation specifically mandates that suppliers guarantee product quality and safety, with particular emphasis on foodstuffs and essential commodities.

    Operational improvements include the swearing-in of new inspection personnel, deployment of technical training programs, modernization of inspection tools through digital solutions, and establishment of a quality control laboratory. These measures aim to strengthen market surveillance capabilities and enhance citizen protection mechanisms.

    The initiative gained urgency following a recent study by the Directorate of Quality Control and Consumer Protection (DCQPC) that identified significant quality deficiencies in commercially distributed treated water within the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. In response, the Ministry engaged suppliers in corrective discussions and convened an inter-institutional workshop that produced a joint circular establishing stringent water quality and compliance standards.

    While affirming that primary responsibility for product safety rests with suppliers and economic operators, the government reiterated its commitment to implementing robust regulatory frameworks. The Ministry urged citizens to report market irregularities while calling on merchants, distributors and manufacturers to strictly adhere to applicable laws and regulations.

    Minister Monazar concluded that ‘consumer protection constitutes a fundamental pillar of both healthy economies and equitable societies,’ emphasizing that informed consumers, responsible businesses, and committed public institutions collectively foster markets built on trust, quality and transparency.

  • Study finds Dominicans have the strongest family ties worldwide

    Study finds Dominicans have the strongest family ties worldwide

    A groundbreaking global mental health study has identified the Dominican Republic as the world leader in familial cohesion and support networks. The Global Mind Health 2025 report, compiled by research organization Sapiens Labs, placed the Caribbean nation at the pinnacle of its international rankings after comprehensive evaluation of mental health conditions across more than 80 countries.

    The extensive research utilized 40 distinct indicators to assess psychological well-being worldwide, with Dominican society demonstrating exceptional strength in family connectivity. According to the findings, an impressive 72% of Dominicans reported experiencing strong closeness and consistent support within their family structures. This percentage significantly surpasses the global average of 61%, positioning the nation 11 points above worldwide norms.

    Finland and Argentina shared second position in the rankings, both registering 70% in family connectivity metrics. Research analysts emphasized that robust family connections represent a characteristic feature across numerous Spanish-speaking societies, serving as crucial infrastructure for mental health maintenance. These intimate social relationships function as vital protective barriers against stress and psychological challenges, particularly valuable in regions experiencing economic volatility or social instability.

    Cultural elements including spiritual practices and deeply ingrained community values were additionally recognized as fundamental components contributing to Latin American resilience. The report further illuminated substantial international disparities in family cohesion, with Taiwan, Benin, and Mozambique documenting considerably weaker family ties ranging between 46-48% – markedly lower than the Dominican Republic’s exemplary performance.

    This comprehensive analysis underscores the enduring significance of familial networks as foundational pillars of social well-being within the Dominican Republic, offering valuable insights for global mental health strategies and cultural understanding.

  • Canapé-Vert : Exceptional popular and medical success of mobile clinics

    Canapé-Vert : Exceptional popular and medical success of mobile clinics

    In a significant public health achievement, Haiti’s mobile medical initiative has delivered exceptional results during a two-day healthcare event in Canapé-Vert. Organized by the Ministry of Health with support from Port-au-Prince City Hall, the mobile clinics marked International Women’s Day by providing comprehensive free medical services to thousands of residents.

    The healthcare drive witnessed an overwhelming response with 2,200 individuals, predominantly women and girls from the municipality, receiving vital medical attention. This substantial participation underscores both the critical need for accessible healthcare services and growing public confidence in Haiti’s health system infrastructure.

    The medical services encompassed a wide spectrum of care including general consultations, pediatric services, gynecological examinations, breast cancer screenings, psychological support, laboratory diagnostics, and pharmaceutical distribution through a community pharmacy. Specialized care was extended to vulnerable groups, with 15 pregnant women receiving prenatal consultations and children suffering from malnutrition obtaining necessary treatment.

    A dedicated team of 70 healthcare professionals and support staff demonstrated remarkable resilience in addressing logistical challenges while maintaining high standards of medical care. The initiative successfully referred two patients with complications to specialized medical facilities for advanced treatment.

    Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé emphasized the government’s commitment to healthcare accessibility, stating: ‘Providing quality care to Haitian women represents an investment in our nation’s future. These mobile clinics demonstrate our administration’s determination to reach vulnerable populations with dignified and effective healthcare solutions.’

    Dr. Sinal Bertrand, who played a pivotal role in the initiative, praised both the medical teams and the community’s response: ‘The overwhelming turnout of thousands of women seeking care brings both immense satisfaction and profound responsibility. Each consultation and medical interaction reinforces our commitment to strengthening Haiti’s healthcare infrastructure.’

    Building upon this success, the Ministry of Health plans to expand collaboration with local authorities to establish regular mobile clinic services in highly vulnerable regions, ensuring sustainable implementation of this community-focused healthcare model across Haiti.