标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The arrival of the USS Gravely, a US warship, in Trinidad on Sunday has intensified concerns over escalating military activity in the Caribbean. This development comes amid warnings from regional leaders and religious figures about the potential destabilization of the area. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago defended the US presence, emphasizing its role in combating drug trafficking and enhancing national security. However, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and former CARICOM leaders have expressed alarm, urging a return to dialogue and peace to avoid regional conflict.

The US military’s increased presence, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, is framed by Washington as part of a counter-drug initiative. However, critics argue it may serve as a pretext for broader geopolitical ambitions, particularly concerning Venezuela. The recent bombing of vessels suspected of drug trafficking, which resulted in casualties including Trinidad and Tobago nationals, has further fueled tensions. The US has yet to provide evidence supporting these actions.

Religious leaders from the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have also voiced concerns, calling for de-escalation and respect for sovereignty. They highlighted the moral and humanitarian challenges posed by militarization and the narcotics trade, urging leaders to prioritize dialogue and regional unity. Meanwhile, Persad-Bissessar stressed the need for immediate action to address crime and drug-related issues in Trinidad and Tobago, citing the country’s proximity to major trafficking routes.

As the region grapples with these challenges, the call for peace remains a unifying theme. Mottley and other leaders have emphasized the Caribbean’s historical commitment to peace and the importance of resolving disputes through international mechanisms like the United Nations. The situation underscores the delicate balance between security needs and the preservation of regional stability.

The United Kingdom and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) have marked a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship with the inauguration of the newly modernized Kingstown Port. British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Simon Mustard, expressed his pride in the UK’s support for this transformative project, which symbolizes the strength of their partnership rooted in mutual respect. The port’s modernization, funded with over US$35 million in grants from the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF), represents a total investment exceeding US$250 million, making it the second-largest infrastructure project in SVG’s history and the most substantial UK-funded initiative in the Eastern Caribbean. The project is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, enhance trade, and bolster the nation’s resilience to climate change. Already, the port has generated over 400 construction jobs, injected US$37 million into the local economy, and facilitated over US$50 million in exports to the UK in 2024. Additionally, the port’s state-of-the-art facilities, including a new mobile scanner, have enhanced border security. Beyond infrastructure, the UK-SVG partnership spans health, energy, environment, culture, security, and trade. Notable initiatives include the SMART hospital project, solar panel installations, and support for creative industries and heritage preservation. The UK remains a staunch advocate for small island developing states, championing their unique vulnerabilities in international forums. As multilateralism faces challenges, the UK and SVG are committed to defending an inclusive, rules-based international system and fostering a future grounded in resilience, equity, and shared prosperity. High Commissioner Mustard emphasized the importance of this partnership, particularly in the face of global fragmentation, and expressed optimism for continued collaboration.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) marked a historic milestone with the grand opening of the new Kingstown Port on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The event, held just two days before the nation’s 46th anniversary of independence from Britain, symbolized a transformative leap toward economic resilience and modernization. The first vessel to dock at the port was the Cyprus-flagged container ship FOUMA, measuring 166.15 meters in length and 25.26 meters in width, which arrived shortly after the opening ceremony.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has called for solidarity and prayers for Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa, a potentially catastrophic storm, advances toward the island. Speaking at the inauguration of the new port in Kingstown, Gonsalves emphasized the immediate danger facing Jamaica, urging attendees to pray for the safety and well-being of the Jamaican people, particularly Vincentian students and residents. The hurricane, predicted to escalate to a Category 5 storm within 48 hours, poses a significant threat with sustained winds exceeding 157 mph. Gonsalves highlighted his communication with the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Vincentian Students Association, ensuring that necessary precautions are in place for student safety. He also mentioned discussions with UWI Vice Chancellor Sir Hillary Beckles, who confirmed that the university has implemented robust measures to protect students, including relocating Jamaican students with secure accommodations to make space for others. Gonsalves reassured parents of students in Jamaica, stating that he remains in close contact with student leaders and will continue to monitor the situation. He emphasized the importance of prayers not only during the storm but also in its aftermath, addressing potential post-hurricane challenges.