What started as a celebrated wedding catering service has now evolved into Panama’s first fine dining Indian restaurant. Mystic India, after nearly a decade of creating unforgettable culinary experiences at grand Indian weddings across Panama, has officially launched its permanent establishment. This new venture offers residents and visitors a unique blend of authentic Indian flavors, artistic presentation, and exceptional hospitality. Since 2014, the Mystic India team has been traveling annually to Panama to cater lavish Indian weddings, earning a reputation for consistency, quality, and unmatched flavor. Their dedication has secured the trust of numerous Indian families who repeatedly invite them to celebrate their most cherished occasions. ‘We’ve had the honour of being invited to cater weddings in Panama for over a decade,’ a spokesperson for Mystic India shared. ‘Each year, our team travels to Panama to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Guests would often ask, ‘Why don’t you open a restaurant in Panama?’’ That opportunity recently arose, and the team seized it, transforming their years of passion and expertise into a permanent culinary landmark. The result is Mystic India, a stunning new restaurant that redefines the perception of Indian cuisine in Panama. With elegant décor, warm service, and an inventive menu, Mystic India has quickly captivated food lovers across the city. The restaurant’s soft opening was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with a fully booked first night and steady reservations ever since. The buzz continues to grow as the team prepares for its grand opening on October 18, marking a new era for fine dining in Panama City. ‘Mystic India isn’t just about food — it’s about sharing culture, celebration, and connection,’ shared founder Karina Mahbubani. ‘Panama has always welcomed us with open arms during weddings and special events, and now, we’re honoured to make it our home.’ With its blend of traditional recipes, modern presentation, and impeccable consistency, Mystic India promises to be a destination where every meal feels like a celebration.
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Drone training innovation for Trench Town’s youth
A groundbreaking initiative in technological education was launched in Trench Town, South St Andrew, as Brightstar Lottery Jamaica (BLJ) inaugurated an after-school advantage center dedicated to drone technology training. The event, held at the Trench Town Community Development Committee (CDC), marked BLJ’s 15th such center and the commencement of its third annual drone technology workshop. This program aims to provide hands-on experience in drone operations, equipping young people with skills for the future. In her keynote address, BLJ General Manager Debbie Green emphasized the transformative power of drone technology, noting its global impact and the importance of ensuring Jamaican youth are not left behind. Green highlighted the projected growth of the global drone market, which is expected to surpass $100 billion in the coming years, and urged the youth to seize the opportunity to become innovators rather than mere consumers. She drew parallels between Trench Town’s rich musical heritage, home to legends like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, and its potential to lead in technological innovation. Lascelles Page, a community member, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating that it has opened new career possibilities for him and other youth. Page highlighted the practical applications of drone technology, such as its use in events like the Grand Gala, and expressed his determination to master the skills offered by the center. The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the official opening of the center and the beginning of a new chapter in technological empowerment for Trench Town.
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‘NO BRUTE FORCE’
In a decisive move to address the growing concerns surrounding the homeless population at Justice Square in downtown Kingston, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, alongside Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby, announced on Wednesday that individuals loitering in the area will no longer be permitted to remain. The announcement came after a night and early morning visit to the square, which houses the Supreme and Appeal courts, where McKenzie and Swaby engaged with dozens of homeless individuals.
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SQUAD GOALS
Jamaica’s national senior men’s football team, the Reggae Boyz, are on the brink of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a series of impressive performances in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. Head Coach Steve McClaren expressed his confidence in the squad, which he believes has finally come together as a cohesive unit. The team currently leads Group B after a commanding 4-0 victory over Bermuda and a favorable 1-1 draw between Curacao and Trinidad and Tobago. This puts Jamaica in a strong position with nine points, ahead of Curacao with eight, Trinidad with five, and Bermuda at the bottom with zero points. McClaren highlighted the impact of key players such as Bobby Reid, Shamar Nicholson, and Dujuan Richards, who all contributed to the win against Bermuda. The return of midfielders Isaac Hayden and Kasey Palmer, who missed the previous game due to suspension, was also pivotal. McClaren praised their performances, particularly Palmer’s work rate and Hayden’s stability in the midfield. Since taking charge in July 2024, McClaren has made several adjustments to the squad, with 11 new players compared to the team from a year ago. He emphasized the importance of trust and competition within the squad, which has seen significant improvement over the past year. With two crucial matches remaining—against Trinidad on November 13 and Curacao on November 18—McClaren remains cautious but optimistic. He stressed the need for players to stay fit and healthy, as the team aims to secure their place in the World Cup. The overseas contingent of the Reggae Boyz and technical staff departed Jamaica on Wednesday and are expected to return to Kingston on November 10, ready for the final push towards qualification.
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Wereldleiders in Beijing zetten zich in voor versnelling vrouwenontwikkeling
Three decades after the Fourth World Conference on Women, the journey toward full gender equality remains fraught with challenges. Addressing this pressing issue, Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled four pivotal proposals at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing, aiming to expedite the comprehensive development of women worldwide. Xi emphasized the necessity of fostering broader consensus, opening new pathways, and taking actionable steps to address the complex obstacles women face globally.
The meeting, attended by world leaders, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations, served as a platform for in-depth discussions on gender equality and women’s empowerment. President Xi called for collective efforts to create a conducive environment for women’s growth and development, stating, ‘Their overall development is achieved under the conditions of peace and stability.’ He highlighted the importance of enhancing protection for women and girls in regions affected by war, conflict, poverty, or natural disasters, underscoring women’s critical role in conflict prevention and community rebuilding.
Xi also advocated for strengthening mechanisms to combat violence against women and addressing all forms of gender-based violence decisively. He proposed leveraging scientific and technological innovation to empower women and support their role in green development. Additionally, Xi emphasized the need for robust governance frameworks to safeguard women’s rights and interests, including improved legislation and access to quality health and education services.
The Chinese leader urged for a new chapter in global cooperation for women, focusing on supporting their role in global governance and sharing its benefits. He reiterated the central role of the United Nations and called for increased attention to the needs of women in developing countries, alongside the creation of broad collaborative platforms.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stressed the importance of strengthening women in leadership roles and inclusive decision-making, while Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton emphasized international collaboration to improve women’s global standing. Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama shared the country’s progress in gender equality, including the election of its first female vice president.
UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed highlighted the centrality of women and girls in green and digital transitions, and UN Women Executive Director Sima Sami Bahous reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality worldwide.
The event, attended by a delegation from the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, showcased a vibrant display of international flags and cultural diversity, symbolizing the collective effort to address gender inequality. The meeting concluded with a renewed call for global unity and actionable measures to achieve gender equality.
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Ministry of Works Hails Renovation of Barbuda Council Building
The Ministry of Works has celebrated the completion of the Barbuda Council Administrative Building renovation, a significant achievement in the island’s infrastructure and governance. This project, finalized earlier this year, aims to enhance local administration and improve service delivery for Barbuda’s residents. Funded through a USD 31 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and additional government investments, the refurbished building now boasts structural repairs, modern furnishings, and expanded spaces tailored to meet the needs of the island’s growing population. The renovation is part of a broader civil works program, which includes the rehabilitation of the Community Centre, now retrofitted for emergency shelter use, the construction of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) Operations Centre, and the development of a Community Multipurpose Centre/Emergency Shelter. Additionally, resilient concrete roads are being constructed across Barbuda to enhance transport safety and boost economic prospects. These initiatives are integral to a wider strategy aimed at providing modern infrastructure and supporting sustainable development on the sister isle.
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Commissioner of Police Congratulates Officers Who Excelled in Their Academic Pursuits
In a remarkable display of dedication to both duty and education, five officers from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda have been celebrated for their outstanding academic achievements. Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Everton Jeffers, publicly commended Inspector Evette Henry, Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah, Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah, Sergeant Renee Roberts, and Corporal Lenia Livingstone for successfully completing their studies at the University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus (UWIFIC). These officers graduated with honors in various disciplines, showcasing their commitment to professional and personal growth. Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah led the group with First Class Honours in International Management, while Sergeant Renee Roberts and Corporal Lenia Livingstone earned Upper Second Class Honours in Business Management, specializing in Human Resource Management. Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah achieved Upper Second Class Honours in Management with Psychology, and Inspector Evette Henry graduated with Upper Second Class Honours in Management, focusing on Human Resource Management. Commissioner Jeffers expressed immense pride in their accomplishments, stating that their success reflects the Force’s dedication to continuous learning and development. He encouraged other officers to follow their example, emphasizing the importance of education in enhancing service delivery and leadership capabilities. The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Administration’s support for officers pursuing higher education, highlighting how such achievements strengthen the organization’s ability to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda effectively.
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Motion passes in Parliament: Douglas and Charles to posthumously receive highest honour on independence day
The Parliament of Dominica has unanimously passed a motion to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country’s most prestigious recognition, upon the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion, introduced by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, celebrates the enduring legacy of the two leaders, whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to social justice, education, and community development have left an indelible mark on the nation. The awards will be presented posthumously during the formal ceremonies marking Dominica’s 47th Independence Anniversary on November 3. Prime Minister Skerrit, addressing the Parliament, highlighted the exemplary service of both leaders, emphasizing their contributions to the advancement of Dominica and the broader Caribbean region. Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas served as Prime Minister from February 2000 until his untimely death on October 1 of the same year, while Pierre Charles succeeded him, serving from October 3, 2000, until his passing on January 6, 2004. The Dominica Award of Honour stands as a testament to their selfless devotion and distinguished service to the nation and its people.
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US strikes another vessel off Venezuela coast, killing six
In a significant escalation of its anti-narcotics operations, the United States has conducted its fifth military strike on a vessel accused of drug trafficking off the coast of Venezuela. President Donald Trump announced the strike on Truth Social, claiming the boat was linked to “narcoterrorist” networks and was transporting narcotics. The attack resulted in the deaths of six individuals, bringing the total fatalities from such operations to 27 since September. However, the US has yet to provide concrete evidence or details about the identities of the vessels or those on board. The strike has drawn criticism from legal experts and neighboring countries, with accusations that the US is violating international law. Trump defended the action, stating that intelligence confirmed the vessel’s involvement in drug smuggling and its association with illicit networks. He also shared an aerial surveillance video showing the boat being struck by a missile. The strike aligns with a recent leaked memo to Congress, which framed the US as being in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels. This classification potentially justifies the use of wartime powers, including lethal force against suspected traffickers. Critics argue that the strikes are part of a broader political strategy to pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been accused of involvement in drug trafficking. The US has also deployed warships to the Caribbean, further intensifying tensions in the region. Maduro has vehemently denied the allegations, and Venezuelan officials have questioned the authenticity of the footage shared by Trump. The situation underscores the complex interplay between anti-narcotics efforts and geopolitical maneuvering in Latin America.
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PM announces plans for new police belts, double Youth Economy funding
In a significant move to empower the younger generation, Prime Minister Philip J Pierre announced during this week’s pre-cabinet meeting that the government will double the funding allocated to the Youth Economy Grant program in the upcoming budget. This decision comes on the heels of the initiative’s remarkable success, which has already benefited over 1,000 young Saint Lucians since its inception. The program offers grants of $5,000, coupled with essential training, to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their businesses. Pierre highlighted that the grant component has outperformed the loan scheme administered by the Saint Lucia Development Bank, with ongoing discussions aimed at enhancing the loan program’s effectiveness and accessibility. The Prime Minister also lauded the Youth Economy Agency for its independence, emphasizing that its decisions are made by an impartial board, free from political influence. While acknowledging delays in processing applications due to overwhelming demand, Pierre described the high level of interest as encouraging and reiterated the government’s dedication to streamlining procedures. In a separate development, Pierre addressed concerns over police welfare, revealing that the government has ordered 1,300 specialized belts to replace the uncomfortable gear currently in use. This initiative follows the recent distribution of bulletproof vests, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving the working conditions of law enforcement officers. The Prime Minister expressed optimism that the new belts, currently in production, will significantly enhance officers’ comfort and efficiency.