标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Cuban president says talks held with the United States amid intense pressure from Trump

    Cuban president says talks held with the United States amid intense pressure from Trump

    In an unprecedented televised address, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has officially confirmed high-level diplomatic discussions between Cuban officials and United States representatives. The announcement marks Havana’s first acknowledgment of bilateral talks previously referenced by former President Donald Trump.

    The discussions were reportedly led by President Díaz-Canel alongside former leader Raúl Castro and key members of Cuba’s Communist Party. While the Cuban delegation was specified, the American participants remain undisclosed. The talks aimed to identify and address critical bilateral issues requiring resolution, with Díaz-Canel characterizing the process as “highly sensitive” and requiring “responsibility and great sensitivity.”

    This diplomatic engagement occurs against a backdrop of severe economic distress in Cuba, exacerbated by what Cuban officials describe as an “energy blockade” imposed by the United States. The situation has reached critical levels with President Díaz-Canel revealing that no fuel shipments have reached the island for three consecutive months, resulting in widespread blackouts and severe fuel shortages.

    The economic pressure intensified following Trump’s actions against Venezuela, which included cutting off Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba and threatening tariffs on other nations supplying crude oil to the island. These measures have compounded existing challenges, creating what the Cuban president acknowledged as “tremendous impact” and “anguish among the population.”

    The healthcare sector has suffered particularly severe consequences, with Díaz-Canel stating that tens of thousands of surgical procedures cannot be performed due to electricity shortages. Despite these challenges, the Cuban government maintains it has been preparing for such circumstances in advance.

    The presence of Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, grandson of Raúl Castro, during the presidential address underscored the significance of these developments within Cuba’s political leadership. This confirmation from Havana provides the first official counterpart to Trump’s previous assertions regarding US-Cuba negotiations.

  • Canadian Woman Remanded After 67lb Cannabis Seizure at Airport

    Canadian Woman Remanded After 67lb Cannabis Seizure at Airport

    In a significant narcotics interdiction case, a 48-year-old Canadian woman remains in custody following her arrest at Antigua’s airport for attempting to import a substantial quantity of cannabis. Roselynee Crisostomo was apprehended upon arrival via Air Canada flight AC1832 from Toronto on March 10th after a coordinated operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

    The successful interception resulted from collaboration between the Narcotics Department, Special Services Unit, K-9 Unit, and Customs Enforcement Unit, who discovered approximately 67 pounds of cannabis concealed within her luggage during routine screening procedures.

    Crisostomo now faces multiple serious charges including drug trafficking, importation of controlled substances, possession of cannabis, possession with intent to transfer, and involvement in the supply chain of illegal narcotics.

    During her initial court appearance before Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, prosecutors successfully argued against bail approval, citing the defendant’s lack of established connections to Antigua and Barbuda as creating substantial flight risk concerns.

    The judicial ruling resulted in Crisostomo’s remand into custody pending further proceedings. Her case has been scheduled for continued review on May 13, 2026, indicating the complex nature of international drug trafficking cases and the serious penalties associated with such offenses in Caribbean jurisdictions.

  • UPDATE: Three Urlings Fishermen Missing at Sea

    UPDATE: Three Urlings Fishermen Missing at Sea

    A critical maritime search operation is currently in progress off the coast of Antigua and Barbuda following the mysterious disappearance of three local fishermen. The crew, comprising vessel owner Calton Pitt and his companions Devon Prince (alias ‘Greecegun’) and Ivan Pryce (alias ‘Puskey’), embarked from the Urlings fishing village aboard the white cabin vessel FAITH P (Registration: V2090UL) on Wednesday evening.

    The situation escalated when a brief communication from one of the fishermen early Thursday morning promised an imminent return. Subsequent attempts to establish contact proved futile, with all calls going directly to voicemail, indicating devices were either powered down or beyond cellular range. This abrupt silence has heightened concerns among families and authorities alike.

    In response to the emergency, the Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard has mobilized official search assets. They are being supported by a coalition of local fishermen from the Urlings community who have volunteered to scour familiar fishing grounds. The collective effort represents a robust response to the potential maritime crisis.

    Authorities have issued a public appeal for information, urging anyone with potential sightings or relevant details about the vessel’s whereabouts to immediately contact the dedicated emergency numbers: 774-0820 or 728-5884. The search continues as the community holds hope for a safe recovery.

  • Antigua and Peru Move to Strengthen Diplomatic and Trade Links

    Antigua and Peru Move to Strengthen Diplomatic and Trade Links

    In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda and the South American republic of Peru have formally initiated talks to deepen their diplomatic engagement and expand trade cooperation. The development marks a strategic effort to bridge the Caribbean and Pacific regions through enhanced multilateral collaboration.

    High-level discussions between government delegations have centered on establishing a more robust framework for political dialogue and mutual support in international forums. Both nations recognize the value of presenting a united front on global issues, particularly those affecting small island developing states (SIDS) and Andean communities.

    Economically, the partnership seeks to capitalize on complementary market strengths. Antigua’s position as a tourism-dependent economy with emerging digital sectors presents opportunities for Peruvian investment in hospitality infrastructure and technology ventures. Conversely, Peru’s robust agricultural export sector—particularly its world-renowned coffee, quinoa, and specialty food products—stands to gain improved market access to Eastern Caribbean consumers.

    The negotiations also address streamlined customs procedures and reduced trade barriers, potentially establishing preferential terms for key commodities. This aspect of the agreement aims to make Peruvian exports more competitive in Antiguan markets while creating pathways for Antiguan services and expertise to enter the Peruvian economy.

    Beyond trade, the talks encompass cultural exchange programs and educational partnerships. These initiatives are designed to foster greater people-to-people connections and develop institutional knowledge sharing between the two nations, creating lasting bonds beyond governmental agreements.

    The strengthened alliance reflects a growing trend among mid-sized and smaller economies to form strategic partnerships that enhance their collective bargaining power in international trade negotiations and global governance discussions. This bilateral effort demonstrates how geographically distant nations can find common ground through shared economic interests and complementary developmental goals.

  • Government Reassigns Several Permanent Secretaries

    Government Reassigns Several Permanent Secretaries

    In a significant administrative realignment, the government has announced a strategic reassignment of several high-ranking permanent secretaries across multiple ministries. This reshuffle aims to optimize leadership capabilities and ensure the most effective deployment of experienced personnel within the civil service.

    Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, previously with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education. This move brings his diplomatic expertise to the educational sector during a period of ongoing reform.

    Concurrently, Ina Dalso-Henry, who held the position of Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education since her transfer from Health last year, has been reassigned to lead the Ministry of Creative Industries. Her successor in the Foreign Affairs role will be Sharon Stevens, marking a new chapter in the ministry’s diplomatic administration.

    Commenting on these transitions, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, characterized the moves as standard operational procedure. He emphasized that such periodic rotations are conducted to achieve the ‘best fit’ for various governmental divisions, ensuring that seasoned administrators are positioned where their specific skills can be most effectively utilized for national benefit. Merchant further clarified that these adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to maintain a dynamic and responsive public service structure.

  • Intersection at Corn Alley and Long Street Closed for Up to a Week

    Intersection at Corn Alley and Long Street Closed for Up to a Week

    Municipal authorities have implemented a full vehicular closure at the critical junction of Corn Alley and Long Street, with the shutdown anticipated to persist for approximately five to seven days. This temporary measure is essential to facilitate the proper curing of newly laid concrete, ensuring the structural integrity and long-term durability of the road surface.

    The strategic closure aims to protect the freshly installed concrete from potential damage that could compromise the roadway’s safety and lifespan. During this period, traffic patterns in the adjacent areas will undergo significant modifications. Southbound vehicles on Corn Alley will maintain access to left turns onto Long Street, while eastbound travel remains the sole permitted direction for motorists on Long Street.

    Transportation officials are urging drivers to adhere to all posted directional signage and exercise heightened vigilance when navigating through the reconfigured traffic zones. The intersection is scheduled to resume normal operations upon completion of the concrete curing process, which requires this protective period to achieve optimal strength and durability standards.

  • Grays Hill Resident Calls for Road Repairs After Truck Crashes Into Property

    Grays Hill Resident Calls for Road Repairs After Truck Crashes Into Property

    A Grays Hill resident is issuing urgent appeals to government officials for immediate road repairs following a severe incident where a truck lost control on the deteriorating roadway and crashed into her residential property. The accident resulted in significant damage to both a parked vehicle and structural components of her home.

    Surveillance footage captured the moment the commercial truck veered off the compromised road surface, entering the residential driveway before colliding with the rear section of a stationary black sedan. The impact continued as the vehicle subsequently struck an exterior air-conditioning condenser unit mounted alongside the residential structure.

    The property owner revealed she has consistently petitioned authorities regarding the hazardous road conditions through multiple channels. Despite her persistent efforts, including direct communications with the Public Works Department and even attempting temporary pothole repairs herself, no substantive action has been taken to address the deteriorating infrastructure.

    “I’ve exhausted all available options in seeking road repairs,” the frustrated homeowner stated, emphasizing the potential for greater tragedy had residents been outdoors during the incident. The close call has intensified her demands for immediate governmental intervention.

    The resident is now directly appealing to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Works Minister Maria Browne to dispatch assessment teams to evaluate the hazardous conditions in the Grays Hill vicinity. This incident highlights broader infrastructure concerns throughout Antigua and Barbuda, where deteriorating road networks—particularly in elevated regions—present escalating risks to both motorists and adjacent properties. The geographical challenges of hilly terrain exacerbate existing pavement damage and pothole formation, creating potentially dangerous conditions that require comprehensive infrastructure evaluation and remediation.

  • Concern Grows After Three Fishermen From Urlings Fail to Return

    Concern Grows After Three Fishermen From Urlings Fail to Return

    The tranquil coastal settlement of Urlings has been plunged into profound anxiety following the unexplained disappearance of three local fishermen. The individuals embarked on their routine maritime expedition on Thursday evening and have since failed to make contact or return to shore, triggering widespread alarm throughout the region.

    In a powerful demonstration of communal solidarity, residents have initiated a digital campaign to locate the missing mariners. A public appeal containing critical identifiers has been disseminated across social media platforms and community networks. The notice features two dedicated contact lines—774-0820 and 728-5884—established for potential informants to relay any pertinent information regarding the fishermen’s whereabouts.

    Visual evidence accompanying the alert depicts a fishing craft presumed to be the vessel operated by the missing crew. The boat, identifiable by the markings “FAITH P” and registration code Y2090UL, represents a crucial element in the ongoing search efforts. Maritime experts suggest these identifiers could significantly aid recognition by fellow seafarers or coastal observers.

    As hours extend into days without communication, familial distress has reached critical levels. Relatives of the absent fishermen describe an agonizing wait for updates, with hope increasingly tempered by apprehension. Local community leaders have voiced collective concern, emphasizing the close-knit nature of their fishing-dependent society.

    While official confirmation regarding organized search operations remains pending, civilian mobilization continues unabated. Community volunteers are coordinating shoreline monitoring efforts and disseminating information across neighboring districts. The incident has highlighted both the vulnerabilities of maritime occupations and the robust solidarity that emerges during crises within coastal communities.

  • Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a celebration of musical excellence, Dwight Laviscount has been crowned Instrumentalist of the Year at Antigua and Barbuda’s prestigious National Music Awards. The honor recognizes his transformative impact on the nation’s instrumental music landscape through performance, education, and community development.

    Laviscount emerged victorious from a competitive field of finalists that included distinguished musicians Dalma ‘Boogie’ George and Javonte Chattel. The selection committee particularly highlighted his pioneering work in establishing Integral Music—an innovative initiative dedicated to fostering musical collaboration and nurturing emerging talent across the Caribbean nation.

    The award ceremony spotlighted Laviscount’s extensive educational outreach, including his organization of specialized clinics for young musicians at multiple schools nationwide. His commitment to professional development remains ongoing through advanced studies at the renowned Berklee College of Music, while his performance career demonstrates remarkable versatility through cross-genre collaborations that have enriched Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural tapestry.

    During his acceptance speech, Laviscount emphasized the collective nature of artistic achievement. ‘This recognition extends beyond personal accomplishment—it’s about stewardship and building pathways for those who follow,’ he reflected. ‘We bear responsibility not merely to excel individually, but to establish legacies that empower future generations of musicians.’

    The artist gratefully acknowledged both divine guidance and the steadfast support of his wife, who attended the ceremony. The Instrumentalist of the Year award constitutes a cornerstone of the National Music Awards, which annually celebrates the diverse contributors—from performers to producers—who shape the nation’s vibrant music industry.

  • Repairs to All Saints Clinic Near Completion

    Repairs to All Saints Clinic Near Completion

    The extensive renovation project at All Saints Clinic is approaching its final stages, with government officials confirming that a formal announcement regarding the facility’s status is imminent. The disclosure emerged during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, where Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, addressed public concerns about the project’s timeline while affirming substantial progress has been made.

    Merchant confirmed the near-completion status when questioned about the clinic’s rehabilitation, stating, “Work has been done. It’s near completion.” He further indicated that an official update from the relevant ministry would be forthcoming, potentially within days.

    The Ministry of Works has been overseeing the comprehensive repairs, which address structural and maintenance issues that have accumulated over multiple decades. Merchant emphasized the complexity of these long-overdue improvements, noting that many repairs date back to the early 2000s and cannot be accomplished “at the snap of a finger.”

    The communications director explained that the ministry has been systematically working to upgrade government facilities across the board, describing the process as time-intensive but necessary. “The Ministry of Works has been doing its best in trying to get all of government’s facilities up to speed,” Merchant stated, acknowledging both the public’s patience and the methodical approach required for proper infrastructure rehabilitation.