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  • PM heads to Caricom meeting in St Kitts

    PM heads to Caricom meeting in St Kitts

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is leading Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation to the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom in St Kitts and Nevis from February 24-27. The high-level gathering, chaired by St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, convenes under the theme “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable Caricom.”

    The Trinidadian delegation includes Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Sean Sobers, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Nicholas Morris, and Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine. Beyond formal proceedings, the delegation plans bilateral engagements with United States representatives and security agencies to strengthen cooperation on economic development, security, trade, and regional challenges.

    This diplomatic mission occurs against a backdrop of regional tensions regarding US military operations in Caribbean waters. Since September 2, US anti-narcotics operations have resulted in 148 fatalities and the destruction of 44 vessels, including two Trinidadian nationals—Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo—killed in an October 14 strike off Venezuela.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar has consistently supported these operations, stating she has “no sympathy for traffickers” and that US forces should “violently kill them all.” This position has placed her at odds with Caricom’s collective stance that the region should remain a “zone of peace.” In October, she described Caricom as an “unreliable” partner following disagreements over US military actions.

    The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a case on behalf of the deceased Trinidadians, alleging the strikes constitute “premeditated and intentional killings” violating domestic and international law. Despite these controversies, Persad-Bissessar has maintained Trinidad and Tobago’s bilateral security partnership with the US, including high-level meetings with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and General Dan Caine, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff.

  • Major failure in National Electrical System affects service in parts of the country

    Major failure in National Electrical System affects service in parts of the country

    Santo Domingo – The Dominican Republic faced a severe nationwide power crisis on Thursday morning following a major failure in its National Interconnected Electrical System (SENI). The collapse triggered widespread blackouts across multiple regions, disrupting normal life and economic activities throughout the Caribbean nation.

    Emergency response protocols were immediately activated as technical crews from the national grid operator, electricity distributors, and generation companies launched coordinated efforts to address the system failure. Engineers are working around the clock to implement a phased restoration plan that prioritizes grid stability and safety measures.

    Government authorities emphasized that their primary focus remains on ensuring an orderly recovery process that maintains the integrity of the national power infrastructure. The Coordinating Body for the electrical sector is overseeing the complex restoration operation, which requires careful load management to prevent secondary failures.

    Official communications channels have been established to provide regular updates to the public as the situation evolves. Residents are advised to monitor authorized information sources for details on restoration timelines and affected areas. The incident represents one of the most significant power disruptions to hit the country’s electrical infrastructure in recent years, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable energy services.

  • Nieuw Nederlands kabinet treedt vandaag aan na 117 dagen formatie

    Nieuw Nederlands kabinet treedt vandaag aan na 117 dagen formatie

    The Netherlands has officially sworn in a new coalition government led by 38-year-old Prime Minister Rob Jetten from the D66 party, concluding a 117-day formation process. King Willem-Alexander presided over the ceremonial inauguration at Huis ten Bosch Palace, followed by the traditional balcony photo session and the cabinet’s first ministerial meeting.

    The installation comes immediately after the publication of an independent financial analysis of the coalition agreement by the Central Planning Bureau and Environmental Assessment Agency. The assessment reveals concerning economic disparities: while average purchasing power shows slight improvement, lower-income households will experience relative decline. Without the new measures, their financial position would have strengthened more significantly.

    Key concerns include the healthcare deductible increase from €385 to €460 annually, which disproportionately affects lower incomes, and reductions in unemployment and disability benefits that diminish income security. Trade union FNV summarized the situation: “The lower your income, the higher the bill.” CNV warned about risks in scaling back safety nets for disabled workers.

    Simultaneously, defense spending increases substantially, bringing Netherlands in line with NATO’s new 5% of GDP target. Education also receives additional funding, though national debt is projected to rise long-term due to investments in defense, housing, and climate initiatives.

    On climate and nitrogen reduction, the planning agencies indicate proposed measures remain insufficient to fully achieve targets.

    The Dutch model uniquely integrates independent financial assessment directly into government formation, exposing economic consequences before political finalization. This contrasts with many countries, including Suriname, where coalition agreements primarily function as political documents with financial implications emerging later during budget cycles.

  • Severe weather in northeast U.S. impacts air travel to the Dominican Republic

    Severe weather in northeast U.S. impacts air travel to the Dominican Republic

    Santo Domingo witnessed significant aviation disruptions as approximately 25 flights to and from the Dominican Republic were canceled on Sunday, February 22nd, following the onslaught of winter storm Ernesto. The powerful weather system unleashed heavy snowfall across multiple northeastern U.S. states, creating travel chaos for hundreds of passengers.

    The National Weather Service (NWS) had escalated forecasts for the intensifying storm, which particularly targeted the Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian regions. Major metropolitan areas including Philadelphia, Delaware, Boston, and New York faced anticipated snow accumulations ranging from 23 to 45 centimeters. Meteorological authorities cautioned that the storm would gain strength throughout Sunday, delivering persistent heavy snow accompanied by vigorous winds, with weather alerts extending through Monday.

    Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom) confirmed that the cancellations primarily impacted JetBlue and Delta Air Lines operations. The disrupted flights involved critical aviation hubs such as John F. Kennedy International Airport, Logan International Airport, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Initial reports indicated eight Sunday cancellations, with an additional sixteen JetBlue flights suspended for Monday, February 23rd, specifically affecting air routes connecting the Dominican Republic with New York and Boston.

    New York City officials, under the leadership of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, urgently advised residents to minimize non-essential travel amid forecasts predicting snowfall rates reaching five centimeters per hour. The city experienced its first blizzard warning in nine years, according to Listín Diario. Transportation authorities continued to recommend that travelers vigilantly monitor airline communications as winter conditions persisted throughout the region.

  • United States Secretary of State among distinguished international guests for historic 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis

    United States Secretary of State among distinguished international guests for historic 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis

    BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is poised to host one of its most significant diplomatic gatherings in history as world leaders and international dignitaries assemble for the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government from February 24-27, 2026.

    The landmark summit, convened under the theme ‘Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM,’ has attracted unprecedented international attention with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the distinguished roster of global participants. Secretary Rubio is scheduled to deliver a keynote address during Wednesday’s Opening Plenary Session, highlighting the strategic importance Washington places on Caribbean partnerships.

    The high-level assembly will feature addresses from an impressive array of international figures including Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, United Arab Emirates Minister of State Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, and African Export-Import Bank President Dr. George Elombi. Their collective presence demonstrates growing global recognition of CARICOM’s geopolitical significance.

    Host nation Saint Kitts and Nevis, currently holding the rotating CARICOM chairmanship under Prime Minister Dr. Terrance M. Drew, will guide deliberations on pressing regional concerns including climate finance architecture, food and energy security frameworks, and evolving regional security challenges. The gathering of over 200 delegates represents one of the most substantial diplomatic convergences in the Caribbean Community’s five-decade history.

    Prime Minister Drew emphasized the transformative potential of this golden jubilee meeting, stating: ‘The world’s eyes will be on Saint Kitts and Nevis as we host this landmark gathering. Our theme challenges us to move from deliberation to decisive action. The caliber of international participation reflects a shared commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Caribbean.’

    The summit marks a pivotal moment for regional integration efforts and represents a significant diplomatic achievement for the Drew administration, which assumed the CARICOM leadership role on January 1, 2026.

  • Sant Kitts and Nevis welcomes regional and international leaders for historic CARICOM 50 Opening Ceremony

    Sant Kitts and Nevis welcomes regional and international leaders for historic CARICOM 50 Opening Ceremony

    BASSETERRE, SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS – February 23, 2026 – The Caribbean Community embarks on a monumental chapter as Saint Kitts and Nevis prepares to host the fiftieth regular meeting of the CARICOM Conference of Heads of Government. The grand opening ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24th at 4:00 PM local time at the prestigious Marriott Dome in Frigate Bay.

    This landmark assembly, commemorating five decades of regional integration, will convene under the compelling theme “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM.” The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis assumes a position of leadership as the current CARICOM Chair, with Prime Minister Dr. Terrance M. Drew steering the community’s agenda through the first half of 2026.

    The ceremony will feature addresses from an esteemed roster of Caribbean leaders, including CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett, outgoing Chair and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Surinamese President Dr. Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, and Vincentian Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday.

    The event promises to be a vibrant showcase of Caribbean cultural heritage through performances, setting the stage for three days of high-level diplomatic discussions. Attendees will include heads of government from member and associate states, international dignitaries, and representatives from regional institutions.

    Prime Minister Drew emphasized the historical significance of the gathering, stating: “This ceremony transcends formal proceedings—it embodies Caribbean unity and reaffirms our shared dedication to tangible progress. Our theme ‘Beyond Words’ communicates to our citizens and the global community that CARICOM is transitioning into an era defined by implementation, resilience, and sustainable prosperity.”

  • Ministry of Sustainable Development Categorically Refutes Disinformation Being Spread by Managing Director of St Kitts Marine Works Ltd

    Ministry of Sustainable Development Categorically Refutes Disinformation Being Spread by Managing Director of St Kitts Marine Works Ltd

    The Ministry of Sustainable Development has issued a formal rebuttal against what it characterizes as malicious disinformation spread by Regiwell ‘Reggie’ Francis, Managing Director of St. Kitts Marine Works Ltd. The controversy centers on the company’s unauthorized occupation of Crown lands at the New Guinea Industrial & Commercial Development zone.

    According to the Ministry’s statement released February 23, 2026, despite a cordial meeting between government officials and Francis on February 19 aimed at resolving longstanding land regularization issues, the businessman subsequently disseminated distorted information regarding the factual and legal circumstances.

    The Ministry revealed that St. Kitts Marine Works Ltd has occupied approximately 26.68 acres of Crown land for nearly two decades without paying rent, additionally constructing seawall and berthing facilities on adjacent seabed without proper leases or compensation to the state. The company initially entered a land purchase agreement in January 2021 for the concessionary price of EC$6,013,893.60, but failed to fulfill the terms, paying only a partial deposit of EC$50,000.

    The government’s calculations indicate the company now owes EC$13,284,092.75 as of February 2026 under the terms of the failed agreement. Furthermore, the Ministry alleges the business has encroached on sixteen adjacent commercial lots allocated to other landowners who have complied with their obligations.

    In what the Ministry describes as a reasonable regularization framework, the government has proposed a 10-year renewable lease for the occupied land at negotiated rates, a separate seabed lease at EC$4,000 monthly, and application of the previous deposit toward rental payments. The proposal requires the company to vacate the unauthorized adjacent lots immediately.

    The statement emphasized that Crown lands constitute public assets held in trust for citizens, and no entity is entitled to occupy them indefinitely without lawful tenure or state compensation. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness, and orderly development while supporting continued economic activity.

  • Column: Suriname blijft worstelen, maar hoop gloort aan de horizon

    Column: Suriname blijft worstelen, maar hoop gloort aan de horizon

    For decades, Suriname has been trapped in a recurring cycle of systemic challenges that continue to plague its transportation, agricultural, and environmental sectors. Public transport operators face persistently ambiguous and fluctuating fare regulations, while rice farmers—the backbone of the nation’s economy—repeatedly confront seasonal irrigation shortages and unfavorable pricing structures. Meanwhile, citizens regularly battle worsening urban flooding and inefficient waste management systems that remain unresolved despite years of political discussions.

    The renewal processes for bus permits undergo constant procedural changes without achieving meaningful efficiency or transparency. Critical water canal maintenance appears neglected, resulting in increasingly severe flooding during routine rainfall. The rice sector, vital to Suriname’s economic stability, faces the same fundamental challenges season after season without sustainable solutions.

    Despite periodic changes in government leadership, the approach remains consistently characterized by temporary fixes and partial measures that provide momentary relief rather than comprehensive solutions. The waste management crisis continues as a persistent eyesore, with paid garbage collection systems remaining in discussion phases while trash accumulation worsens.

    Suriname nevertheless possesses unique advantages that many nations lack. The country experiences none of the catastrophic natural disasters—hurricanes, earthquakes, or tsunamis—that regularly devastate other regions. Its air quality remains pristine, and abundant high-quality drinking water is readily available—resources that millions globally still struggle to access. Additionally, Suriname maintains a peaceful society characterized by rich cultural diversity and remarkable social harmony.

    These blessings often go underappreciated as citizens focus on daily frustrations, yet they provide a solid foundation for transformative development. Realizing this potential requires leadership willing to break from traditional patterns and implement long-term vision rather than short-term fixes. The nation needs administrators who view the country as a collective responsibility rather than a personal playground, prioritizing communal welfare over individual interests.

    The path forward demands courageous leadership committed to substantive change, combined with active citizen engagement and renewed institutional trust. While Suriname’s challenges are significant, the capacity for meaningful transformation exists within its societal framework. Through determined collaboration and visionary governance, Suriname can transcend its cyclical problems and build a future worthy of its citizens’ pride and aspirations.

  • Authorities launch international training program for emergency rescue teams

    Authorities launch international training program for emergency rescue teams

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to bolster national disaster preparedness, Dominican authorities have inaugurated a comprehensive international training and certification initiative designed to enhance specialized search and rescue (SAR) capabilities. The program specifically targets operations in collapsed structures and confined spaces, aiming to elevate the technical and operational proficiency of emergency response teams across the country.

    This strategic endeavor represents a collaborative inter-institutional partnership, spearheaded by the National Office for Seismic Evaluation and Vulnerability of Infrastructure and Buildings (Onesvie). The initiative is being executed in coordination with major international and domestic partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National School of Risk Management (Esnageri), and the National Emergency and Security System 9-1-1.

    Official communications clarify that the program’s core objective is to systematically reduce seismic vulnerability and significantly improve emergency response outcomes for disasters triggered by earthquakes and catastrophic structural failures. This will be achieved through the rigorous implementation of internationally recognized training protocols and certification standards.

    The curriculum is structured around four specialized courses. The foundational training commenced with the Incident Command System (ICS), which is being delivered by instructors from the American Safety & Rescue Institute. This module carries international accreditation certified by Texas A&M University. A subsequent series of advanced courses, slated for March, will complete the training cycle. These will encompass critical skill sets in hazardous materials (HAZMAT) management, confined space rescue techniques, and advanced strategies for rescue operations in collapsed buildings.

  • Baby girl found abandoned on Anacaona Street in San Juan de la Maguana

    Baby girl found abandoned on Anacaona Street in San Juan de la Maguana

    In a distressing incident that has unsettled the local community, a three-month-old female infant was discovered abandoned on Anacaona Street in San Juan de la Maguana this past Sunday. The child was found carefully wrapped in a small blanket and appropriately dressed, left unattended on a neighborhood curb. Alert residents promptly notified municipal authorities, who swiftly responded to secure the infant’s safety. Emergency services transported the baby to a nearby medical facility for comprehensive health evaluation, where physicians confirmed the child remains in stable condition despite the traumatic circumstances. The identity of those responsible for abandoning the infant remains unknown as investigations continue. The case has been formally referred to the National Council for Children and Adolescents (Conani), the Dominican Republic’s primary agency responsible for protecting vulnerable minors. Community members expressed profound shock regarding the incident, highlighting ongoing concerns about child welfare in the region.