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  • Trump dreigt Canada met 100% tarief vanwege handelsakkoord met China

    Trump dreigt Canada met 100% tarief vanwege handelsakkoord met China

    U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Canada, threatening to impose 100% tariffs on all Canadian goods entering the United States if Prime Minister Mark Carney proceeds with a trade agreement with China. In a post on Truth Social, Trump asserted that such a deal would enable China to “completely swallow Canada,” devastating its businesses, social fabric, and way of life.

    The warning comes amid heightened tensions between the two North American neighbors, exacerbated by Carney’s recent criticism of Trump’s Greenland policy and his calls for “middle powers” to collaborate against U.S. hegemony. While Carney avoided directly addressing Trump’s tariff threat in a recent video statement, he emphasized Canada’s focus on domestic economic resilience, noting, “We cannot control what other countries do, but we can be our own best customer.”

    Carney’s visit to China this month resulted in a trade agreement aimed at improving strained bilateral relations. China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner after the U.S. Initially, Trump appeared supportive of the outreach, stating on January 16 that securing a deal with China was advisable. However, his stance has since hardened significantly.

    Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc clarified that the agreement with China does not constitute a free trade deal but addresses key tariff issues. The Chinese Embassy in Canada expressed readiness to implement the consensus reached between the two countries.

    Trump also suggested that China might use Canada to circumvent U.S. tariffs, warning that Canada must not become a “dumping ground” for Chinese goods. The potential imposition of 100% tariffs would severely impact Canadian industries such as metal production, automotive manufacturing, and machinery.

    The relationship between Trump and Carney, initially cordial, has deteriorated notably. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Carney received a standing ovation for his remarks on middle-power cooperation, while Trump retorted that Canada “exists because of the United States”—a claim Carney dismissed by asserting that Canada thrives because of its people.

    In retaliation, Trump rescinded Canada’s invitation to his Peace Board, an initiative focused on international conflict resolution and the future of Gaza. Additionally, Trump has dismissed the USMCA trade agreement—scheduled for review in July—as “irrelevant.”

    Historically, Trump has frequently deployed tariff threats during his presidency, though he has occasionally withdrawn or moderated them following negotiations. Most recently, he eased threats of stricter tariffs on European allies after NATO leaders committed to enhancing Arctic security.

    The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has urged both governments to seek mutual understanding to alleviate the uncertainty plaguing businesses amid ongoing trade conflicts.

  • Nearly 2,700 Haitians detained and deported in special operations

    Nearly 2,700 Haitians detained and deported in special operations

    In a sweeping nationwide enforcement action, Dominican migration authorities conducted a large-scale interdiction operation targeting irregular migration in the early hours of January 23. The General Directorate of Migration (DGM) reported the detention and/or deportation of 2,697 Haitian nationals found in violation of the country’s immigration statutes.

    The operation demonstrated significant coordination across multiple regions, with 1,222 individuals promptly repatriated through designated border checkpoints. The geographic distribution of these returns revealed concentrated activity in key border regions: Elías Piña (618), Dajabón (441), Jimaní (85), and Pedernales (78).

    Simultaneous enforcement sweeps resulted in the apprehension of 1,258 undocumented migrants across diverse operational theaters. In Greater Santo Domingo, operations targeted the districts of Villa Mella, Herrera, Villa Duarte, and the National District. The Cibao region witnessed coordinated actions in Santiago, Mao, Hermanas Mirabal, Monseñor Nouel, and Santiago Rodríguez, while southern operations focused on Barahona, Azua, and San José de Ocoa.

    Tourist zones received particular attention, with 217 foreign nationals detained in La Altagracia and La Romana provinces alone. These operations concentrated on high-traffic tourist destinations including Bávaro, Verón, and Uvero Alto, plus adjacent communities, through joint deployments combining military and police resources.

    The operational framework involved 38 rapid response agents, seven intelligence officers, inspectors, drivers, and armed forces personnel collaborating to enforce migration control in areas experiencing substantial population mobility.

    Authority involvement was distributed across multiple agencies: DGM agents directly apprehended 1,095 individuals, while military and police units accounted for 380 detainees—291 by the Army, 45 by the Specialized Corps of Land Border Security (Cesfront), and 44 by the National Police.

    The DGM emphasized in an official communiqué that all operations were conducted with strict adherence to human rights protocols and existing regulatory frameworks, while reaffirming institutional support for national security apparatuses.

  • Why did Juan Pablo Duarte die in exile?

    Why did Juan Pablo Duarte die in exile?

    On the anniversary of patriot Juan Pablo Duarte’s birth, historical revelations emerge about the tragic exile of the Dominican Republic’s principal independence architect. Despite dedicating his youth, fortune, and ultimately his life to the patriotic cause, Duarte drew his last breath far from the nation he helped create.

    Wilson Gómez, president of the Duartian Institute, provides crucial insight into the political circumstances that prevented the revolutionary leader from returning to his homeland. Historical records indicate that following Duarte’s 1864 attempt to join the Restoration War, the governing administration denied him permission to remain on Dominican soil. Instead, officials compelled his return to Venezuela under the guise of a diplomatic appointment as minister plenipotentiary.

    Gómez reveals that Duarte’s multiple exiles resulted from systematic political persecution—first in 1843 under Haitian President Charles Hérard’s repression, then in 1844 by General Pedro Santana’s actions, and ultimately by the Restoration Government’s 1864 decision. Santana particularly targeted Duarte and the Trinitarians, branding them traitors for their unwavering commitment to national sovereignty and resistance to foreign domination.

    The Dominican liberals, led by Duarte, maintained principles of political integrity, religious faith, and trust in their people that directly contradicted the conservative establishment’s agenda. Between 1844 and 1864, authoritarian regimes, corruption, and persistent insecurity created insurmountable barriers to Duarte’s reintegration into national life.

    Contrary to popular belief, Gómez clarifies that Duarte’s exile, while difficult, wasn’t marked by extreme poverty or defeat. Evidence suggests the revolutionary maintained business acumen, with his family owning property in central Caracas and living with dignity. Historical accounts document Duarte’s commercial activities along Venezuela’s eastern coasts and inland waterways, including expeditions along the Orinoco and Negro Rivers toward Brazilian borders.

    Portuguese missionary Sanjení reportedly encountered Duarte on the Rio Negro in 1857, while historians believe the patriot learned of his mother’s 1858 death and his 1848 amnesty declaration during his Venezuelan years. Despite political betrayals and capitulations, Duarte’s ideals of sovereignty continue to inspire Dominican leaders 182 years after the republic’s foundation.

  • Wereldlepradag: lepra bestaat nog in Suriname, maar is volledig te genezen

    Wereldlepradag: lepra bestaat nog in Suriname, maar is volledig te genezen

    Despite being fully curable, leprosy continues to affect communities in Suriname, with new cases emerging annually—often diagnosed at advanced stages due to persistent stigma and public unawareness. World Leprosy Day, observed on the last Sunday of January, serves as a critical platform to raise awareness, dismantle misconceptions, and promote solidarity with those affected.

    Leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, is a chronic infectious disease transmitted through prolonged close contact. It manifests as numb skin patches, nodules, and nerve damage, particularly in the extremities. Without early intervention, it can lead to permanent physical impairments.

    In Suriname, an average of 10 to 20 new cases are reported each year, with 12 confirmed in 2025. The Dermatology Service emphasizes that early detection and treatment can prevent disabilities in nearly all instances and confirms that the disease is entirely curable.

    In a significant step toward eradication, the Dermatology Service, in collaboration with Belgium’s Institute of Tropical Medicine, is launching a nationwide research initiative in 2026. This project will evaluate the effectiveness of single or double-dose preventive medication for close contacts of leprosy patients. The study will extend across all districts and continue through the end of 2027.

    The World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme for 2026, “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma,” highlights the profound social and psychological repercussions faced by patients, often stemming from misinformation. The WHO urges global efforts to increase education, encourage open dialogue, and actively combat discrimination.

    Critical facts dispel common fears: the leprosy bacterium is one of the least contagious pathogens, requiring prolonged, intensive exposure for transmission. Patients become non-infectious after their first treatment, making fear and exclusion unwarranted.

    The Dermatology Service urges the public to seek information and timely medical evaluation for any suspicious skin patches or numb nodules, especially on the ears and nose. Through collective action, Suriname aims to build a future free from leprosy, fear, and stigma.

    For expert care and guidance, the Dermatology Service is located at Tourtonnelaan #5, with registration hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00–11:00 AM.

  • For every new vehicle brought from the US, five Chinese units entered the Dominican Republic in 2025.

    For every new vehicle brought from the US, five Chinese units entered the Dominican Republic in 2025.

    Santo Domingo – The automotive landscape in the Dominican Republic has undergone a dramatic transformation, with Chinese vehicles emerging as the dominant force in the new car market. According to data from the United Automotive Industry Group (Guía-RD), China supplied 14,556 new vehicles to the Dominican market in 2025, dwarfing the United States’ contribution of merely 2,944 units. This establishes a remarkable ratio of five Chinese vehicles for every American car entering the country.

    The ascendancy of Chinese automakers is attributed to a dual strategy of competitive pricing and sophisticated design. Modern, attractive vehicle designs coupled with increasingly affordable prices have positioned Chinese brands as the preferred choice for Dominican consumers. The average Free On Board (FOB) value for new vehicles declined to $22,228, making new car ownership more accessible compared to used alternatives. This price advantage has been crucial in shifting consumer preference toward new vehicles from authorized dealerships, which offer manufacturer warranties and eliminate the uncertainties associated with pre-owned vehicles.

    Despite tariff exemptions for American vehicles under the DR-CAFTA free trade agreement, the U.S. maintains leadership only in the used vehicle segment, importing 32,700 units compared to China’s 505. Dominican consumers increasingly view Chinese vehicles as a secure investment with guaranteed dealership support.

    Market dynamics have been further influenced by broader economic conditions. A 4% reduction in overall vehicle imports during 2025 enabled importers to balance supply with diminished demand. The Dominican Central Bank’s restrictive monetary policy, which pushed interest rates on consumer loans to 19.4% annually, reduced purchasing power and compelled consumers to reconsider spending patterns.

    In response to these market shifts, importers have diversified their offerings to include hybrid and super-hybrid vehicles, which saw import growth of 54.7% in the previous year. These models provide enhanced fuel efficiency and superior warranties, adding significant value to the new car market amidst evolving consumer preferences and economic challenges.

  • Monorath: Situatie bij Zijin levensgevaarlijk, brandstichting onacceptabel

    Monorath: Situatie bij Zijin levensgevaarlijk, brandstichting onacceptabel

    Suriname’s Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath has expressed profound regret over a fatal incident at the Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines in Brokopondo that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old illegal miner. The minister characterized the mining area as persistently hazardous due to repeated intrusions by unauthorized gold seekers.

    Minister Monorath clarified that the Chinese multinational mining company operates within established regulations, provides employment opportunities, and contributes tax revenue to the state. However, he acknowledged the economic desperation driving individuals to infiltrate the mining site for subsistence. “These activities occur in an extremely life-threatening manner,” Monorath stated, noting that illegal miners frequently position themselves near heavy machinery and crushing operations during rock processing activities.

    The tragedy unfolded when security personnel attempted to evacuate individuals from the active work zone. During this operation, one man fell into a mining pit and succumbed to his injuries. The situation escalated dramatically as remaining illegal miners refused to disperse from the facility.

    Following the fatality, enraged protesters set multiple company assets and vehicles ablaze. The mining enterprise, in coordination with security forces, withdrew personnel and equipment to secure locations. Police reinforcements dispatched to contain the violence faced projectile attacks from aggrieved individuals.

    In response to the deteriorating security situation, authorities deployed additional police units and military personnel to restore order. Minister Monorath emphasized the unacceptable nature of the destruction against multinational property and assaults on law enforcement officers. He highlighted existing government-level agreements and noted that mining revenues fund essential public services nationwide.

    The minister prioritized immediate stability and civilian safety while indicating future dialogues to seek middle-ground solutions. Monorath unequivocally condemned violent responses and property destruction as illegitimate means of conflict resolution.

  • Power outages affect DGII platforms and paralyze the sale of vehicle registration stickers and online services

    Power outages affect DGII platforms and paralyze the sale of vehicle registration stickers and online services

    The Dominican Republic’s General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII) announced a significant service disruption on Saturday due to electrical infrastructure failures that crippled its technological platforms. The outage has severely impacted the agency’s Virtual Office (OFV), preventing citizens from accessing critical digital services including tax payments and vehicle registration sticker purchases.

    According to an official statement released by the tax authority, the electrical issues have rendered key digital services inaccessible. The DGII’s technical teams are actively working to resolve the system failures and restore full functionality, though no specific timeline for complete recovery has been provided.

    The technological breakdown has created tangible problems for Dominican citizens. Multiple authorized banking institutions reported being unable to process vehicle registration sticker sales throughout Saturday due to the system-wide outage. Customers visiting various bank branches received uniform notifications about the DGII’s system failure, leaving them unable to complete mandatory vehicle registration procedures.

    Beyond sticker sales, taxpayers encountered substantial difficulties attempting to fulfill their fiscal obligations digitally. Users attempting to access the DGII’s virtual platform received various error messages, including notifications indicating that requested web pages were non-existent or temporarily unavailable.

    The tax authority has issued a formal apology to taxpayers for the inconveniences caused by the service disruption. The DGII has committed to providing ongoing updates regarding system restoration progress and will announce when services return to normal operational capacity.

  • Sunny skies and rain in some provinces will dominate the weather this Sunday

    Sunny skies and rain in some provinces will dominate the weather this Sunday

    The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) forecasts improving weather conditions for Sunday as the meteorological trough previously affecting the nation continues its eastward movement away from the region. Morning hours will feature predominantly sunny skies with intermittent cloud cover developing throughout the day.

    Meteorologists note that wind patterns will contribute to increased cloud formation, potentially generating localized passing showers. The southwestern provinces of Barahona and Pedernales, along with eastern regions including La Altagracia, El Seibo, La Romana, and Samaná, are most likely to experience these scattered precipitation events.

    During afternoon hours, meteorological models suggest possible rainfall development in central and northern territories. Residents in Santo Domingo province, San Cristóbal, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, Sánchez Ramírez, Duarte, and La Vega should remain prepared for potential brief showers.

    Temperature conditions remain within seasonal norms, offering comfortable conditions across the island nation. Minimum temperatures are forecast between 20-22°C (68-72°F), while maximum temperatures will reach 29-31°C (84-88°F). The combination of seasonal temperatures and dispersing weather systems indicates generally favorable conditions for outdoor activities, with only isolated interruptions expected.

  • Juan Pablo Duarte: the political thought behind the father of the nation

    Juan Pablo Duarte: the political thought behind the father of the nation

    Juan Pablo Duarte, founding father of the Dominican Republic, established a profound political philosophy that continues to serve as a moral compass for national leadership centuries after the nation’s independence. His vision positioned politics not as speculative endeavor but as the “purest and most worthy science after philosophy”—a noble pursuit demanding complete dedication to national interests above personal gain.

    According to Wilson Gómez Ramírez, president of the Duartian Institute, the patriot conceptualized politics as an exclusive channel for public service rather than personal enrichment. This approach inherently required sacrifice and commitment to national advancement through transparent, honest governance. Duarte’s famous exhortation—”Let us work for and for the homeland, which is to work for our children and for ourselves”—encapsulates this selfless ideology.

    Duarte personally exemplified this integrity through remarkable accountability practices. As general and deputy commander of the Southern Expeditionary Army, when unexpectedly summoned to account for expenditures, he provided meticulous documentation showing he had spent only 17.3% of allocated funds, returning 82.7% to the national treasury—an unprecedented act of fiscal responsibility that earned him official discharge.

    The revolutionary leader’s fundamental bill extensively outlined his institutional vision, emphasizing unwavering commitment to rule of law, respect for basic rights, legal certainty, and national sovereignty. His constitutional principles continue to shape Dominican governance, with the State maintaining the name he designated, the flag waving with pride, and the national motto “God, Fatherland and Liberty” enshrined in the Constitution.

    When asked how Duarte would view contemporary Dominican Republic, Gómez Ramírez suggested the founder would feel “ashamed at the lack of honesty, commitment and selflessness” among those leading national life, where private interests frequently supersede national priorities. Yet he would simultaneously feel pride seeing aspects of his dream realized through enduring national symbols and institutions.

    Born January 26, 1813 in Santo Domingo to Spanish merchant Juan José Duarte Rodríguez and Manuela Díez Jiménez, Duarte’s political consciousness developed during European studies after the University of Santo Domingo closed during Haitian occupation. Exposure to liberal and nationalist movements in England, France and Spain profoundly shaped his vision for Dominican independence, which he pursued upon returning in 1831.

    The seminal moment arrived July 16, 1838 with Duarte’s establishment of La Trinitaria—a secret society dedicated to independence organizing. Initial members Juan Isidro Pérez, Félix María Ruiz and José María Serra were later joined by crucial figures Francisco del Rosario Sánchez and Matías Ramón Mella, collectively achieving independence proclamation on February 27, 1844. This organization instilled core values of patriotic love, sacrifice and civic commitment that defined the liberation movement and continue to resonate in Dominican political culture.

  • Antigua Cruise Port opens new terminal as cruise arrivals climb

    Antigua Cruise Port opens new terminal as cruise arrivals climb

    The Caribbean tourism sector witnesses a significant milestone as Antigua Cruise Port officially inaugurates its cutting-edge terminal facility. This strategic development arrives amid a substantial upward trajectory in cruise passenger arrivals to the Eastern Caribbean destination. The newly operational infrastructure represents a pivotal enhancement to the island’s tourism capabilities, designed to streamline passenger processing and elevate the overall visitor experience.

    Port authorities confirm the modern terminal features expanded disembarkation areas, digitalized customs processing, and contemporary retail spaces showcasing local artisans. The project forms part of a comprehensive public-private partnership initiative aimed at positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a premier cruise hub within the competitive Caribbean market. Industry analysts note the timing coincides with regional recovery patterns showing cruise tourism volumes approaching pre-pandemic levels with notable growth in premium-class vessels.

    Tourism officials emphasize the development directly addresses practical operational demands while creating substantial economic opportunities for local businesses. The enhanced facility enables simultaneous docking of larger cruise ships while reducing turnaround times, thereby increasing potential passenger capacity. Early operational data indicates passenger throughput efficiency has improved by approximately 40% compared to previous arrangements.

    Market response appears positive with several major cruise lines adjusting itineraries to include extended stays at Antigua’s improved port facilities. The development aligns with the island’s broader economic strategy targeting high-value tourism segments through infrastructure modernization and service excellence.