Bahamas News

Blacklisting and regional political unrest concerns, as Bahamas goes to 30th CARICOM Inter-Sessional

Published

5 years ago

February 25, 2019

#Nassau, February 25, 2019 – Bahamas – Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis will lead a delegation to the 30th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), in St Kitts, February 26-27, 2019.

Heads are expected to engage in several side meetings to advance diplomacy and bilateral agreements among Member States. High on the agenda for The Bahamas are the recent Blacklisting by the European Union and the political unrests in Haiti and Venezuela. Senior Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, Joshua Sears discussed the importance of the Meeting, which takes place just months before Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community.

Inter-Sessional meetings came about after Heads discovered that many items on the Agenda for the Regular Meeting could not be adequately dealt with. Hence, a meeting in between is held to address any issues which might require urgent attention.

“But there are also special meetings by Heads which are called to deal with specific matters. For example, most recently Heads met to deal with the situation in Venezuela, and after 9/11 Heads met in special session to deal with that specific issue and the economic implications for Caribbean countries,” Mr. Sears said.

“So Inter-Sessional will give the Prime Minister and other Heads of Government a chance to assess some critical issues.”

According to Mr. Sears, the Intersessional Meeting covers a full slate of issues over a two-day period.

“Quite a lot can be done in two days. The Agenda has been set and streamlined to have focused discussions. There will be some long hours but that’s the tradition and we have no concerns about our ability to complete the Agenda,” he said.

Among the Agenda items are: the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, Security issues, Blacklisting and Border Issues.

Just recently The Bahamas, and several other Caribbean countries, was placed on a European Union Blacklist, which requires additional scrutiny regarding financial transactions.

“For many years CARICOM has been advocating for a fair process and we will see now that that voice has resonated with developed countries,” Mr. Sears said.

The United States also made its statement on the EU’s process and it is anticipated that CARICOM Heads of Government will also renew their commitment to working together as a group to call for a fairer process. “The entire CARICOM region is adversely impacted by these regulations,” Mr. Sears said, adding that, “The good thing about it is through the Financial Action Task Force countries agreed to recommendations to improve their financial sectors and by each country taking the necessary steps… we follow each other and adopt the best practices, Heads share their views, Central Banks Governors meet and they share views and they all work towards making these recommendations more relevant to address the financial concerns of the international financial community.”

Acknowledging that these are “vexing problems” for The Bahamas and CARICOM as a whole, Mr. Sears said that the developing countries within the EU feel that these centres are causing them to lose tax revenues. “Personally, I don’t think that’s a justified conclusion, for them to take the steps they are taking particularly when countries have demonstrated their commitments to improving legislative framework and policy framework. I think they are misguided in that respect,” he said.

Heads are to also view updates on applications for Associate Membership from Aruba, Curacao and Saint Maarten.

“Heads agreed some time ago for these countries to be considered for membership as these countries already have relations with CARICOM so its basically, in essence, a formality,” Mr Sears said.

Regarding the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, although The Bahamas joined the Caribbean Commiunity (CARICOM) on July 4, 1983, it remains out of the CSME which is an enlarged market offering a single economic space for the production of competitive goods and services.

“The Bahamas is not frowned upon for not joining the CSME, we make decisions based on our national interests and we certainly have been a part of CARICOM. We have attended Heads of Government meetings and there are lots of areas in which we participate like the Community Council of Ministers, the Council of Foreign and Community Relations, the organization dealing with health and social development and many other areas of collaboration within the Caribbean Community. So from our point of view there is not a concern in terms of about being isolated from or being negatively impacted,” Mr. Sears said.

Regarding border issues, he pointed out that a concern for The Bahamas and other member-states is the political crisis in Venezuela, which has impacted several Member States in a direct way.

“Guyana has been bearing the brunt of the humanitarian crisis in terms of people crossing the border. Trinidad has been impacted and there have been a few incidents reported. This has been on the world stage,” Mr. Sears said, “Also the situation in Haiti has been one of concern for CARICOM and the president of Haiti (is expected) to brief CARICOM. Of course, the impact on us in terms of the illegal migration is one of critical concern.”

Heads will also have chance to dialogue with the President of Estonia, Her Excellency Kersti Kaljulaid. It is customary that one special guest is allowed at these meetings.

The Prime Minister’s Delegation will include the Hon. Darren Henfield, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sears, Viana Gardiner, Chief Operating Officer, Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit; Erica Wells-Cox, Director of Communications Office of the Prime Minister and other government officials.

On the margins of the Inter-Sessional, there’s the 10th Special Meeting of the Community Council of Ministers on February 25, which will be attended by Ministers of Foreign Affairs.

The 30th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community just precedes the 40^th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference scheduled for July in Saint Lucia.

“It’s critical for the Bahamian public to appreciate and understand that CARICOM is an organization which has a strong voice in international relations. We have a strong voice on issues. Sometimes the Bahamian people don’t appreciate the need and the necessity for governments to participate in these organizations.

“The world is such a small place and we all try to develop best practices and standards and there are policy issues which impact education and the legal framework which calls for collaboration between Governments. When we go to the OAS, or the Commonwealth of Nations or the United Nations, CARICOM’s voice is one, which is very important too. We attend these meetings as part of that whole process,” Mr. Sears said.

By Lindsay Thompson

Release: BIS

Bahamas News

Pacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme

Published

4 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

Office of University Relations

22^nd April 2024

Eleuthera, THE BAHAMAS – A pioneering cohort of 43 Eleuthera residents graduated from the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) free Leading Light Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) on Friday 19^th April, 2024.

The programme, launched in February 2024 and delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN), offers a series of courses to ensure Eleuthera has a proficient workforce capable of delivering unparalleled hospitality leadership as the island experiences a sharp growth in tourism arrivals. The graduation ceremony was held at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

The courses focused on tourism and hospitality skills, leadership development and effective communication. They were taught by UB faculty and included guest lecturers such as former Director General of Tourism, Minister of Tourism and Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Vincent Vanderpool Wallace and veteran hospitality professor Dr. Lincoln Marshall.

“This programme represents the mission-driven collaboration and skills-building that University of The Bahamas is committed to fostering, supported by an important industry partner like Disney Cruise Line,” noted UB President (Acting) Janyne Hodder. “Given the importance of the tourism industry to our nation, we know how vital it is that we continually equip our workforce with diverse expertise to uphold our reputation for excellence in hospitality. We are grateful for this collaboration with Disney Cruise Line which has facilitated programme delivery in Eleuthera, enabling UB to broaden access to much sought-after professional development.”

As training and skills development programming grows across the island of Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme experience was tailored to be free of charge, accessible and conclude with participants earning a UB certification that signals the high standard of education for which the University is recognized. Students came from all walks of life and traveled from as far away as Hatchet Bay in the North, and Bannerman Town in the South to Rock Sound for classes. Programme participants also received a stipend to defray the cost of commuting and other personal expenses.

Nora Smith, a manager at the picturesque Jack’s Bay Club, yearned to increase her skills.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone because The Bahamas is known as a tourism destination. Taking this course in tourism and hospitality, can help me to go far in dealing with tourists daily in my workplace,” she said.

Graduate Javonne Richards appreciated the comprehensive curriculum and the ease of access to the courses that were offered.

“This programme not only fills a gap in our Eleuthera education offerings, but also equips participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he noted.

Director General of Tourism Mrs. Latia Duncombe, who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony, shared three essential qualities for successful tourism professionals: energy, creativity and a welcoming personality.

“Your fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are invaluable to creating unique, unforgettable customer experiences,” said Mrs. Duncombe. “While technology such as Artificial Intelligence, also have a role to play, human interaction remains essential.”

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera the Honourable Clay Sweeting commended the partnership that is supporting community growth.

“I am proud of every Eleutheran who came from near and far to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Minister Sweeting. “As Eleuthera’s economy continues to grow, especially in Central and South Eleuthera, I encourage more corporate partners to invest in the local community in innovative ways, like the University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line have, so that we can continue to strengthen our local communities.”

Two additional cohorts will be offered this year, increasing the pipeline of Eleutherans who are optimally skilled as hospitality and tourism ambassadors. Registration for the summer programme will open on May 17 and the second cycle of courses begins June 17, 2024. Fall programme dates are September 23 through November 29, 2024. To learn more about the Leading Light Programme and how to enroll, please email atynes@eleutherahambercommerce.com.

Bahamas News

Royal Caribbean to open Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in 2025

Published

13 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

By LINDSAY THOMPSON

Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Government entered into a Heads of Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, followed by a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, at an estimated $165 million.

The agreement was signed on Monday, April 22, 2024 during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, the project will further enhance the tourism product, on the heels of an estimated 9 million visitor arrivals.

He deemed it “an eventful day” with a reliable partner in RCI of more than 50 years with The Bahamas, and the continued confidence that investors have in the tourism product and economy.

He said it is a partnership with “excellence experiences” as he delighted in the fact that there will be more for the 25,000 cruise ship guests in port.

Also on hand for the activities to seal the agreement were Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; Minister of Energy and Transport, the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna; executives of Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group, and other officials.

“With the signing of this Heads of Agreement for the development of the Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, we embark on a $165 million project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” the prime minister said.

Spearheaded by RBC Paradise Island Ltd. and PDI Paradise Ltd., subsidiaries of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the project will galvanize entertainment and recreational offerings for Bahamians and visitors alike.

The master plan for the Royal Beach Club includes pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, offering an unparalleled on-shore experience for visitors.

“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister then underscored the importance of what the project would mean for Bahamians in the broader scope of things.

An estimated 200 jobs will be created for Bahamians. However, an opportunity is being provided for shared ownership in this development.

It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51% of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining 49 % shares being allocated to the National Investment Fund for the benefit of Bahamians.

“Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation. Local businesses will see their share of opportunities as well. There will be Bahamian boutiques creating avenues for small business ownership,” the prime minister said.

The project will also encompass a joint venture with a Bahamian-owned entity for the operation of a water taxi business; it will provide transportation options for guests of the Royal Beach Club, as well as other attractions in Nassau Harbour – enhancing accessibility while creating additional avenues for economic growth within the community.

“Ultimately, this project will largely be run by Bahamians, owned by the Bahamian people, and supported by Bahamian businesses.

“When we talk about the need to ensure that major tourism projects are primarily for the benefit of the Bahamian people, these are the kinds of opportunities that we are talking about,” the prime minister said.

He observed that the Royal Beach Club represents the latest successful chapter in the story of Paradise Island’s growth as a tourism mecca. Initial negotiations for the project began under the previous administration. Royal Club Beach is expected to open in 2025.

“By signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry. This is our nation, and we must ensure that, first and foremost, our service industries serve us,” the prime minister said.

He concluded, “We are more optimistic than ever before about our economic prospects with tourism leading the way as our number one industry that continues to grow at a record-breaking pace.

At the ground breaking site just west of the Atlantis Resort, officials tilled the soil, marking the beginning of the construction process.

Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said that events regarding the agreement “symbolize partnership, momentum, and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community.

“We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”

Bahamas News

Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement Signed between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province

Published

19 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

By LLONELLA GILBERT
Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas — A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province.

The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama represented The Bahamas at the signing.

His Excellency Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; and Yang Peiran, Interpreter represented the People’s Republic of China.

Minister Moxey explained that in February 2022, she and the former Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dai Qingli began discussion on the establishment of a province-island relationship between Hunan Province and Grand Bahama Island because of their “immense synergy”.

“Hunan has a vibrant creative industry and its capital city, Changsha is known as the entertainment capital of China, whilst Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of entertainment in ‘Our Bluepoint for Change’.”

She said Hunan Province boasts 11 industrial sectors and Grand Bahama is the industrial capital of The Bahamas. Further, innovation driven development has been a new driving force for Hunan, while Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of innovation for The Bahamas.

Minister Moxey said she is confident that an exchange of knowledge, ideas and culture will happen between the residents of Hunan Province and Grand Bahama.

“There is potential for robust trade in various sectors, opportunities for tourism promotion and intercultural appreciation, exchanges to support performing arts programs on our island, foster growth within the Orange Economy, and tap into China’s innovation, technology and vast expertise.”

She said that the formal signing aligns with the mission of Sister Cities International, which is to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, one community at a time.

The Minister said, “Through collaborative programs and initiatives, this connection will support the government’s vision to diversity Grand Bahama’s economy to become the Home of Maritime and Logistics, Home of Events and Entertainment and Home of Innovation.”

She noted that in addition to signing the agreement, she looks forward to Grand Bahama residents benefitting from the signing of the Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding between Central South University and University of The Bahamas (UB), which will expand educational and technical cooperation between the two universities. The northern campus of UB is located in Grand Bahama.

His Excellency Mao Weiming said although geographically far apart, China and The Bahamas are friends with mutual respect and understanding as well as sincerity.

He explained that 27 years ago, both countries established diplomatic relations and China and The Bahamas have deepened their cooperation, strengthened their friendship and carried out many activities in the field of economy, trade and people-to-people exchange.

His Excellency recalled that in August 2022, he and Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis had a video conference where they both reached a consensus to cooperate in order to usher a new chapter in the relationship between Hunan and The Bahamas.

“Today, we are here to sign a sister-to-sister relationship between Hunan and Grand Bahama. It is [a] concrete move to implement our consensus reached before and also to embark on a new journey of friendly exchanges.”

He added, “By establishing the relationship of sister cities, I believe the two sides will develop further in terms of economic and trade cooperation, people to people exchange, as well as friendship, and we will embrace new opportunities and deliver concrete benefits for the two peoples.”

He explained that Hunan, which is the home town of Chairman Mao, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, has developed very advanced industries of manufacturing, agriculture, education, culture as well as tourism.

His Excellency said he believes that Hunan and Grand Bahama enjoy very broad room for cooperation.

He said, “More efforts should be made to conduct cooperation in the fields of agriculture, tourism, culture, education and the film industry so as to realize a connectivity between our two sides in terms of logistics and the platform cooperation; so as to deliver concrete benefits for the people and to make our due contribution to the bilateral relationship between China and The Bahamas.”

PHOTO CAPTION

A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province. The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Shown from left: Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; Yang Peiran, Interpreter H.E. Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; the Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama.

(BIS Photos/Anthon Thompson)