In a groundbreaking fusion of technology and culture, participants of the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program were transported to the iconic Potala Palace in Tibet—without leaving Beijing. Through the immersive power of virtual reality (VR), they embarked on a journey that transcended time and space, offering a vivid glimpse into the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. The experience, facilitated by VR headsets, allowed participants to explore the palace’s intricate architecture, stunning murals, and serene landscapes, all while standing in a 15-by-5-meter room in the heart of Beijing. The virtual tour began with a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains, leading to the discovery of the palace perched high above the Lhasa Valley. Guided by a priestess in a vibrant red robe, participants navigated through the White and Red Palaces, marveled at ancient murals, and even floated above a desert landscape. The experience culminated in a spiritual moment, where participants held glowing orbs symbolizing their wishes and prayers. This innovative use of VR not only preserves cultural heritage but also transforms it into an engaging, interactive experience, far removed from traditional history lessons. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, remains a testament to Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian architectural brilliance. This virtual journey highlights the potential of technology to make history accessible and captivating for future generations.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
-
Cuba kampt met golf van door muggen overgebrachte ziekten
Cuba is grappling with a significant surge in mosquito-borne diseases, with nearly a third of the population affected, according to the country’s chief epidemiologist. The situation has been exacerbated by an ongoing economic crisis, which has hindered the government’s ability to implement effective sanitation and disease control measures. Health workers have been deploying fogging machines in Havana, one of the hardest-hit areas, to combat the spread of viruses such as dengue and chikungunya. Francisco Duran, the national director of epidemiology at Cuba’s Ministry of Public Health, described the situation as ‘acute’ and emphasized ongoing efforts to develop treatments and vaccines. The chikungunya virus, once rare in Cuba, has been spreading rapidly, causing severe symptoms such as headaches, rashes, and joint pain that can lead to long-term disability. Cuban health authorities are conducting clinical trials to test the effectiveness of Jusviza, an injectable anti-inflammatory drug, and exploring rectal ozone therapy as potential treatments. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported nearly 340,000 chikungunya cases globally in 2025, with 145 deaths across at least 16 countries. The World Health Organization has issued an urgent call for action to prevent a new epidemic. Cuba’s healthcare system, once among the best in Latin America, has been severely impacted by decades of U.S. economic sanctions, which have led to shortages of essential supplies, including food, fuel, and medicine. The Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodriguez, has condemned the sanctions as a ‘policy of collective punishment’ that violates human rights.
-
Regionale dialoog moet cacao-industrie nieuw leven inblazen
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with the Cocoa Research Centre (CRC) at the University of the West Indies (UWI), recently hosted a two-day regional dialogue on the future of the cocoa industry. Held from November 13 to 14, 2025, at the UWI School of Education in St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, the event brought together government representatives, academic institutions, producer organizations, private sector stakeholders, and regional development partners. The primary focus was to create a roadmap for revitalizing the Caribbean cocoa industry, particularly emphasizing fine-flavor cocoa. Anne Desrochers, FAO specialist in plant production and protection, opened the workshop on behalf of FAO subregional coordinator Renata Clarke. She highlighted the Caribbean’s comparative advantage in producing some of the world’s most distinctive cocoa varieties but stressed the need for coordinated action to address productivity and sustainability challenges. ‘The Caribbean has a proud cocoa heritage, but we must strengthen collaboration to modernize the sector,’ Desrochers stated. She emphasized that science, innovation, and regional cooperation could transform the industry into a model for sustainable agricultural development. The FAO has supported the cocoa sector in the Eastern Caribbean for several years, providing training and capacity-building for over 300 stakeholders in Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Trinidad and Tobago is one of five global demonstration countries under the FAO’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, with cocoa as the priority commodity. The program aims to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of key agricultural value chains. Karen Lee Lum of the CRC provided an update on the OCOP initiative, which began in Trinidad and Tobago in 2022 and is now entering its second phase with support from China’s South-South Cooperation. ‘Trinidad and Tobago’s fine-flavor cocoa is unique—it is one of only seven countries worldwide exporting 100% of its production as fine-flavor cocoa,’ Lee Lum noted. The new phase, valued at $5 million, will expand to 15 countries, focusing on research, farmer engagement, market access, and green technologies. The workshop facilitated discussions on country-specific progress, innovation exchange, and consensus-building for a regional strategy to further develop the cocoa industry. The roadmap aims to promote sustainable production, added value, and improved market opportunities for Caribbean cocoa.
-
Overval met geweldpleging bij auto-onderdelenzaak; twee verdachten aangehouden
In a coordinated effort, the Digital Investigation, Forensic Investigation, Intervention Units, and Intelligence Services successfully apprehended two suspects, K.O. (23) and D.M., alias “Frustu,” on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The arrests occurred shortly after a violent robbery in the vicinity of Molenpad. The suspects are believed to have targeted an auto parts store early that morning. Dressed entirely in black, wearing gloves and masks, they entered the premises through a passage from an adjacent building. On the second floor, they confronted seven residents in their bedrooms, threatening them with violence to hand over money and jewelry. The victims were then bound and taken to the living room. One victim sustained injuries, including the loss of two front teeth and a swollen lip, requiring medical attention. The perpetrators fled with an undisclosed amount of SRD and foreign currency, gold jewelry, and an air pistol with hearing protection. During the arrest, a gray Toyota Vitz was also seized. Authorities suspect the duo may be linked to similar robberies in Paramaribo and Wanica. Following consultation with the Public Prosecutor, both suspects have been detained, and the investigation has been transferred to the Capital Crimes Division.
-
Column: Vochtige ogen
On the eve of the World Cup qualifier against El Salvador, Suriname’s national team, led by coach Stanley Menzo, held a press conference. While such events often yield little new information, the focus was on the team’s readiness and strategy. Captain Shaquille Pinas, a veteran with 34 international caps, addressed the media, emphasizing his approach to the match: ‘I don’t feel extra pressure. I step onto the field to win, just like any other game.’ He highlighted the players’ awareness of their fans’ emotions, stating, ‘We play for our families, friends, and the people of our country. It’s a great honor to contribute to that.’
The following evening, the Essed Stadium was packed well before kickoff, showcasing the nation’s fervent support. Defender Myenty Abena led a passionate pre-game prayer, setting the tone for the match. Despite a shaky first half with inaccurate passes and a reliance on long balls, Suriname managed to take a 1-0 lead into halftime, thanks to a penalty converted by Tjaronn Chery.
The second half saw a transformed Surinamese team. With fluid combinations and dynamic wingbacks Djavan Anderson and Ridgeciano Haps, they dismantled El Salvador’s defense. Richonell Margaret scored twice, and substitute Dhoraso Klas added a fourth goal, sealing a 4-0 victory. The crowd erupted in celebration, singing the national anthem twice.
Post-match, the team and staff remained on the field, basking in the adoration of their supporters. Goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen showcased his quirky dance moves, while other players expressed their joy in various ways. Coach Menzo, overwhelmed with emotion, retreated to the technical room, reflecting on his journey and the significance of the win. During the subsequent press conference, he expressed immense pride in his team and the country of his birth, though he admitted that the celebrations would be modest. ‘The years are catching up with me,’ he joked, ‘but I know the boys will celebrate tonight.’
Looking ahead, Suriname faces Guatemala in their final qualifying match. Menzo stressed the importance of focus and preparation, even as the team savors their recent triumph. The Surinamese sports press gave Menzo a standing ovation, marking a memorable night for the nation’s footballing aspirations.
-
VS kondigt ‘Southern Spear’-missie aan nabij Zuid-Amerika
The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, has officially announced the launch of ‘Operation Southern Spear,’ a military initiative aimed at combating so-called ‘narcoterrorists’ in Latin America. This announcement coincides with a significant increase in U.S. troop deployments, warships, and fighter jets in the region. Hegseth emphasized the mission’s focus on defending the homeland, eliminating drug-related threats, and safeguarding the population from the deadly impact of narcotics. The operation is led by the Joint Task Force Southern Spear and the U.S. Southern Command (Southcom), which oversees 31 countries across South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Recent activities include U.S. Marines conducting artillery training aboard the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean, aligning with President Donald Trump’s priorities to curb illegal drug trafficking. The announcement follows reports of the U.S. military conducting its twentieth attack on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, resulting in four fatalities. Critics, including Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, argue that the operation is a pretext to exert pressure on Venezuela, with the impending arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the U.S.’s most advanced aircraft carrier, seen as a show of force. Maduro accused the U.S. of fabricating narratives to justify military actions, while Venezuela’s Defense Ministry mobilized nearly 200,000 military and civilian personnel in response to the perceived threat. Regional analysts, such as Elizabeth Dickinson of the International Crisis Group, suggest that the deployment of the aircraft carrier is more about signaling political pressure on Caracas than addressing drug trafficking.
-
Groeiende behoefte betaalbare en duurzame stroomoplossingen
The inaugural edition of the Energy Fair, organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources (NH), has concluded on a high note, marking a significant milestone in the region’s push toward sustainable energy solutions. Claudine Saaki, the event’s project lead, highlighted the rapid growth in electricity consumption among both households and businesses. “Many are actively seeking ways to meet their increasing energy demands while simultaneously reducing costs. The fair addressed numerous queries and provided practical solutions,” she stated. The event was held as part of Caricom Energy Month, which this year adopted the theme “Invest, Innovate, Sustain. Leading the Charge in Energy Frontiers.” Held at Utopia Heritage, the fair featured 13 exhibitors from Suriname, France, and China, showcasing a diverse range of energy innovations. These included solar panels for electricity generation, household batteries, and large-scale energy storage systems for businesses and commercial buildings. With the rise of e-bikes and fully electric vehicles, the demand for charging solutions has surged. Visitors explored various options tailored to this rapidly growing user base. Additionally, powerful power banks for charging laptops and other devices on the go were also a focal point. Saaki emphasized the clear need for a repeat of the event, preferably on a larger scale. “We are very pleased with the turnout. The curiosity about alternative energy sources was immense. People are eager to manage their energy consumption more consciously and are looking for energy-efficient devices or cost-saving methods. The fair aimed to inform visitors about the latest innovations in the sector, particularly in clean and sustainable energy,” she added.
-
Suriname verkent lidmaatschap Ontwikkelingsbank CAF
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation, Melvin Bouva, held a productive meeting with Sergio Díaz-Granados, Executive President of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). The discussions took place during the 4th CELAC-EU Summit in Santa Marta, Colombia, earlier this week. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas of sustainable development, economic resilience, and regional integration. CAF, which recently secured an AA+ credit rating, is renowned for providing tailored financial and technical support to its member countries. The Surinamese delegation was briefed on the potential benefits of joining CAF, including access to development financing for critical sectors such as education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Both parties agreed that CAF would soon dispatch a technical mission to Suriname to develop a comprehensive business case for potential membership. Minister Bouva expressed gratitude for CAF’s open and collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships in fostering sustainable growth and inclusive development. CAF’s regional reputation as a financial institution that prioritizes the socio-economic realities of its member states further underscores the significance of this potential collaboration.
-
Visserijsector onder zware druk door illegale praktijken en hoge kosten
Suriname’s once-thriving fishing industry is now grappling with severe challenges, positioning itself as one of the most fragile links in the agricultural chain, according to the Fishermen’s Collective. The sector is under intense international pressure to meet stricter standards for sustainable and transparent fishing practices, with Suriname being closely monitored. Illegal fishing has emerged as the most significant threat to the industry’s future, prompting repeated warnings from European buyers. They have emphasized the need for stricter enforcement to avoid potential export bans to Europe and other key markets. The collective has stressed that offenders must be held accountable, as the consequences of an export prohibition would be catastrophic. Europe and North America have placed Suriname’s fishing practices under a microscope, demanding precise documentation of catch origins and measures to protect fish species and habitats. Non-compliance, including illegal fishing or mishandling of protected species, could result in severe repercussions, such as export restrictions. Meanwhile, fishermen, processors, and exporters are struggling with rising operational costs, including fuel and electricity prices, while government support remains largely absent. Although the president expressed a positive outlook during earlier discussions with the new administration, tangible measures are yet to materialize. A recent meeting between the Fishermen’s Collective and the parliamentary committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries highlighted critical issues, including maritime safety, licensing policies, outdated legislation, and the surge in illegal fishing. Despite the grim outlook, the collective remains hopeful, citing Suriname’s rich fishing grounds that can meet local food needs and contribute to economic growth—provided the sector is protected and managed sustainably. The collective anticipates that the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries will soon introduce clear policies to address current challenges and provide meaningful support to the industry, ensuring the responsible use of the nation’s natural resources for present and future generations.
-
Bronto Somohardjo: Generationele corruptie is het echte virus in Suriname
During the second round of the General Political Debates, Bronto Somohardjo, the faction leader of Pertjajah Luhur (PL), launched a scathing critique against what he termed ‘generational corruption’ within Suriname’s political culture. Somohardjo argued that corruption has become an inherited legacy in certain political circles, passed down from one party member to another. He emphasized that some individuals believe power is perpetual, with those who rise to the top never facing accountability.