The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in Dominica has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bolstering citrus production across the island. The program is designed to assist commercial citrus growers in expanding or establishing their plantations, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the local citrus industry.
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UN Rapporteur Alena Douhan arrives in Cuba on official visit
A United Nations expert has arrived in Cuba to evaluate the consequences of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States, focusing on its effects on the human rights of the Cuban population. According to the Cuban Foreign Affairs Ministry, the expert’s visit aims to provide a firsthand assessment of the blockade’s impact on various sectors of national life. During her stay, which spans several days, she will engage in discussions with government officials and visit key areas affected by this unilateral policy. Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by Alejandro Gonzalez, Director of International Agencies at the Foreign Ministry, and Francisco Pichon, the resident coordinator of the UN system in Cuba. This marks her second visit to the country, following her participation in an academic event at the University of Havana in 2023. The visit underscores the ongoing international scrutiny of the US blockade and its implications for Cuba’s socio-economic landscape.
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Belize Sends US$400K in Hurricane Relief to Jamaica and Cuba
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Belize has committed $400,000 in emergency relief to Jamaica and Cuba, allocating $200,000 to each nation in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The catastrophic Category 5 storm wreaked havoc across the Caribbean in late October 2025, leaving behind a trail of destruction that includes severe flooding, power outages, damaged infrastructure, and the displacement of thousands of families. The hurricane also disrupted essential services such as water systems, healthcare facilities, and transportation networks, further complicating recovery efforts. Hurricane Melissa, which formed during the peak of the 2025 hurricane season, rapidly intensified as it entered the Caribbean, causing estimated losses of $6–7 billion, equivalent to 28–32% of Jamaica’s GDP. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the disaster as both a humanitarian and economic crisis, reigniting calls for climate accountability ahead of COP30. The Belizean government emphasized the disproportionate climate vulnerabilities faced by Caribbean and small island states, underscoring the urgent need for global action. In addition to financial aid, Belize has sent relief packages to its students in Jamaica and Cuba, containing personal hygiene kits, canned food, and emergency cash. Officials have pledged further assistance if required, reaffirming Belize’s solidarity with the affected nations. ‘Our nations remain united by enduring friendship, cooperation, and mutual support,’ the government stated.
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Belize’s Bishop Philip Wright Elected Archbishop of the West Indies
In a historic achievement for Belize, Bishop Philip S. Wright has been elected as the Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. This marks the second time a Belizean bishop has been chosen for this prestigious role since 1934. The announcement was made during the 42nd Provincial Synod held in the Bahamas. Bishop Wright, who has served as the leader of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, described the moment as “overwhelming” and vowed to continue his service with humility and dedication.
In his address, Bishop Wright expressed his profound gratitude, stating, “You never imagined a day like this would come… It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love, the church to which I have devoted the majority of my life.” His election has been widely celebrated, with Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition, extending her congratulations on behalf of the United Democratic Party and her family. She praised Bishop Wright’s “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.”
As Archbishop-elect, Bishop Wright emphasized the importance of youth engagement and the church’s role in addressing regional issues during his speech at the synod. His elevation is seen as a significant milestone for both Belize and the Anglican community in the West Indies.
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Guatemala shows disrespect for US condemnation of blockade on Cuba
In a thought-provoking analysis, writer and journalist Juan Antonio Canel highlighted the enduring challenges faced by the United Nations (UN) in fulfilling its founding charter. Article 1 of the charter mandates collective measures to prevent threats to peace and suppress acts of aggression. However, Canel pointed out two critical issues that continue to undermine this mission: the U.S. government’s economic, commercial, and financial blockade of Cuba, and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Despite widespread international condemnation, these crises persist, raising questions about the UN’s effectiveness. Canel described the blockade against Cuba as inhumane and questioned the legitimacy of such sanctions imposed on a sovereign nation. He emphasized that these measures violate international law, citing the UN General Assembly’s repeated condemnation of the blockade, most recently on October 29, with 165 votes in favor, seven against, and 12 abstentions. Despite overwhelming support for ending the blockade, Canel lamented that no tangible progress has been made, underscoring the UN’s struggle to enforce its own principles.
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Minister Smith Strengthens Global Blue Economy Ties at Indian Maritime Week 2025
Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy of Antigua and Barbuda, has significantly elevated the nation’s global standing through a series of high-level bilateral meetings. Fresh from his impactful participation at Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue, held during India Maritime Week 2025, Minister Smith engaged in strategic discussions with ministers and senior representatives from India, Mauritius, Singapore, the Maldives, Norway, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, and Liberia. These dialogues focused on strengthening cooperation in sustainable ocean development, sharing best practices, and identifying joint initiatives in research, innovation, and capacity building. A key highlight was his forward-looking exchange with the Prime Minister of India, where discussions centered on enhancing collaboration in maritime education, ocean technology, and Blue Economy policy frameworks. Minister Smith emphasized Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to building strategic partnerships that advance the sustainable use of marine resources, particularly through education, innovation, and youth engagement. He noted that such collaborations are crucial for ensuring equitable growth and ocean resilience among Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and beyond. Accompanied by Ms. Marver Woodley, Senior Operations and Policy Manager within the Department of the Blue Economy, Minister Smith’s active participation in bilateral dialogues has reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a rising voice in global ocean governance and a leading advocate for partnership-driven Blue Economy transformation.
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Angola and Cuba ratify ties of brotherhood in 50th anniversary
The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently commemorated a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between Cuba and Angola. In a formal statement, the Ministry underscored the historical importance of this anniversary for the Angolan people and reaffirmed the robust bilateral ties that have been cultivated through decades of shared struggles and cooperative efforts. The statement also highlighted Cuba’s gratitude for Angola’s steadfast support in its ongoing battle against the U.S.-imposed economic, commercial, and financial blockade, which remains a major impediment to Cuba’s development. The relationship between the two nations, rooted in solidarity and collaboration, traces back to the African independence movements and continues to thrive in both bilateral and multilateral contexts today.
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Dominican Republic to host 27th UN General Assembly on Tourism
In a landmark decision, the 26th United Nations General Assembly on Tourism, held in Saudi Arabia, has selected the Dominican Republic as the host nation for the 2027 UNWTO General Assembly. The resolution, passed with the participation of over 160 delegations from member states, underscores the country’s growing influence in global tourism. Dominican Minister of Tourism, David Collado, expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing its significance for the nation. On his social media, Collado stated, ‘Hosting the UNWTO’s General Assembly in 2027 is not just an achievement: it is a recognition of a management that transformed the way of tourism in the region.’ He further highlighted the Dominican Republic’s expanding leadership in the global tourism sector. This decision follows Collado’s recent recognition as the Tourism Minister of the Americas by UN Tourism, marking the first time the United Nations agency has bestowed such an honor. The 26th Assembly, which concluded this Tuesday, saw the Dominican Republic represented by Deputy Minister Carlos Peguero, solidifying the nation’s commitment to advancing tourism on the world stage.
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Abel Prieto celebrates life, with loyalty to Revolution and Cuba
The president of Casa de las Américas has been widely celebrated for his exceptional leadership and dedication to cultural integration in Latin America and the Caribbean. Described as a tireless advocate for emancipation and a deeply educated individual, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the region. A profound scholar of the works of José Lezama Lima and Roberto Fernández Retamar, he has been a steadfast defender of the Cuban Revolution and the inclusive cultural policies championed by Fidel Castro. His ability to engage with intellectuals and artists without being bound by rigid protocols has earned him immense respect and affection from the public. This recognition extends globally, with creators and colleagues from Casa de las Américas expressing their admiration and congratulations. In a heartfelt gesture, members of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) presented him with a remarkable artwork by Cuban visual artist Moisés Finalé, further underscoring his profound impact on the cultural landscape.
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Parts of Old Capital Still Without Electricity
Residents of Belize City experienced a significant power outage in the early hours of November 11, 2025, following a major transmission line fault. The disruption, which began around 12:30 a.m., was attributed to a damaged utility pole near the Westlake Substation at Mile 8 on the George Price Highway. Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) confirmed that adverse weather conditions further hindered repair efforts. Despite these challenges, BEL initiated immediate restoration work, successfully restoring power to several neighborhoods, including Belama (Phases 1, 2 & 4), Bella Vista, Buttonwood Bay, and Coral Grove by 2:31 a.m. However, as of the latest update, parts of Belize City remained without electricity, with BEL projecting full restoration by 12 noon, pending safe conditions to re-energize the transmission line. The outage also temporarily impacted eRide bus services across the city.