CaribPR Wire

Detained At 95: South Korea’s Prosecution Of A Religious Leader Draws International Alarm

caribpr — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:54:03 +0000

Renowned scholar calls situation “a stain on South Korea’s democratic credentials” as Justice Minister prejudges ongoing case

A 95-Year-Old Behind Bars on Political Party Charges Involving No Violence
Senior Official Publicly Quotes Scripture to Condemn a Religious Minority
Detention Alleged to Violate UN Mandela Rules and WGAD Principles

Chairman Lee Man-hee, 95, was taken into custody on June 24 on political party charges involving no violence - drawing sharp condemnation from international religious freedom organizations.

CARIBPR WIRE, SEOUL, South Korea, Mon. July 6, 2026: International criticism is mounting over the detention and prosecution of Chairman Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old leader of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, and over recent public remarks by South Korea’s Minister of Justice, Jeong Seong-ho.

On June 30, Minister Jeong announced on his social media account that Chairman Lee had been indicted while in detention, writing that “strict criminal punishment corresponding to its responsibility is inevitable.” He closed the post by quoting Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets.” Shincheonji Church of Jesus is a Christian denomination founded in South Korea in 1984.

Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho posted "strict criminal punishment is inevitable" on the day of indictment, closing with Matthew 7:15. Dr. Introvigne called it prejudging the outcome before trial.

Dr. Massimo Introvigne, an Italian sociologist of religion, has published two articles in the religious-freedom and human-rights outlet Bitter Winter addressing this situation: the first on June 24, 2026, criticizing the detention of Chairman Lee at the time of his arrest; and a second on July 2, 2026, raising detailed criticism of Minister Jeong’s public remarks.

■ Detention of the 95-Year-Old Chairman: ‘Jailing an Elderly Religious Leader Violates International Standards’

Chairman Lee was taken into custody on June 24 on charges including violation of the Political Parties Act, and was formally indicted while still in detention on June 30. Investigators allege that between July 2021 and January 2024, Lee organized the enrollment of roughly 50,000 Shincheonji members into the People Power Party (PPP) in an effort to influence the party’s presidential and parliamentary primaries.

Dr. Introvigne argued that placing an elderly religious leader in detention over a case that does not involve violence or other serious crimes falls short of the proportionality standards required under the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the “Mandela Rules”) and the principles articulated by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention.

Sociologist Dr. Massimo Introvigne, writing in Bitter Winter, described the situation as "a stain on South Korea's democratic credentials."

He linked the case to that of Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church (the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification), who was being held in a separate case, warning that “this is not an issue confined to a single religious group — a pattern is emerging in which physical detention is repeatedly used against elderly religious leaders.”

Immediately after the detention, Shincheonji Church of Jesus responded that “Chairman Lee and the church have fully cooperated with every stage of the investigation, including the search and seizure operations,” calling the detention “in effect a physical punishment imposed on a 95-year-old suspect.”

■ Justice Minister’s Public Remarks Targeting a Specific Religion: ‘A Conflict With State Neutrality’

What Dr. Introvigne found particularly troubling was the timing of Minister Jeong’s statement. Jeong made his public call for “strict criminal punishment” on the very day Chairman Lee was formally indicted while in detention. Introvigne noted that when the official who oversees the justice and prosecution system publicly declares the need for punishment just as a case is beginning, it risks being seen as prejudging the outcome.

Dr. Introvigne also pointed out that a public official’s use of a Bible verse that could cast the defendant in a negative light may conflict with the state’s principle of religious neutrality. Because a sitting Minister of Justice’s public statements are likely to be read as more than personal opinion — effectively as the government’s official position – he argued that such remarks warrant far greater caution.

■ The Central Issue Will Be Whether Coercion Occurred

The legal question at the heart of the case is not that members joined a political party, but whether they were coerced into doing so. Prosecutors say the evidence points to an organized, forced-enrollment campaign, while Shincheonji Church of Jesus maintains that members were not compelled by force or directive.

Dr. Introvigne predicted that the trial will hinge on what evidence and legal reasoning are used to prove coercion. He argued that “these charges risk criminalizing ordinary civic participation simply because the individuals belong to a religious minority,” adding that “Shincheonji members, like any other South Korean citizens, have the right to join a political party and support a candidate.”

■ “A Stain on South Korea’s Democratic Credentials”

South Korea's detention of religious leaders has become a test case for international religious freedom standards.

Dr. Introvigne said the case is being closely watched in international religious-freedom circles not simply as a question of guilt or innocence for one religious group, but as a test of “whether a democratic state applies the same standards of rule of law and human rights to religious groups that are controversial or classified as minorities.”

If statements by senior government officials appear to influence judicial independence, a defendant’s right to a defense, or the political freedom of believers, the damage extends beyond the fairness of a single case — it can undermine confidence in the state’s commitment to the rule of law and human rights. A genuine democracy, he said, must guarantee the same procedures and rights to minority groups as to everyone else.

Dr. Introvigne described the situation as “a stain on South Korea’s democratic credentials” and said it is “a matter the world should pay attention to.”

ABOUT SCJ

SCJ is an abbreviation for Shincheonji. SCJ TV is the official broadcasting channel of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony. As a global media platform featuring worship, Bible education, teaching, and cultural content, SCJ TV aims to make its Bible-based teachings accessible to audiences worldwide, transcending geographical and linguistic boundaries.

For more : https://www.shincheonji.org/en

Contact: press@scjtvglobal.com

ORIGINS Fashion Festival Celebrates Guyana’s Creative Industries As A Driver Of Culture, Tourism And Economic Growth

caribpr — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:57 +0000

Some of the designers at the 2025 Origins Fashion Festival in Guyana.

CARIBPR WIRE, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. July 3, 2026: ORIGINS: The Guyana Fashion Festival returns for three immersive days, July 3-5, as Guyana’s premier fashion and cultural showcase.

This year’s Diamond Jubilee edition themed A Diamond Legacy: Fashioning 60 Years, celebrates Guyana’s 60th year of Independence by bringing together Guyanese designers, diaspora talent, emerging creatives and artisans with international visitors, showcasing fashion as a catalyst for national identity, economic development and cultural tourism.

Guyana has recorded the world’s highest real GDP growth rates in recent years, according to International Monetary Fund data. As the country pursues broader economic diversification, ORIGINS showcases the growing role of fashion and the creative industries.

“This initiative demonstrates the Government of Guyana’s commitment to advancing the Orange Economy as a pillar of national development,” said Hon. Susan Rodrigues, Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. “We are investing in the platforms, networks and market access that allow our designers and creatives to grow enterprises, compete internationally and contribute to a more diversified economy.”

Three themed runway experiences highlight Guyana’s story: Golden Threads of Time celebrates 60 years of Guyanese style; Ancestral Threads showcases Indigenous materials and traditional craftsmanship; and Fashion Meets Innovation explores sustainability and forward-thinking Caribbean design.

“For years, Guyanese designers have been creating exceptional work without the industry support needed to grow sustainable businesses,” said Keisha Edwards, Festival and Designer Director. “ORIGINS is more than a fashion festival. It’s an industry-building platform designed to strengthen Guyana’s creative ecosystem through mentorship, business development, market access, so the next generation of Guyanese creatives inherits an industry that is connected, supported and built to thrive.”

More than 30 designers from Guyana and across its diaspora will take the runway over the festival’s three nights, many of them trained through ORIGINS’ own workshops in branding, export-ready packaging, apparel construction and business fundamentals, taught by facilitators from across the Caribbean and beyond.

The festival closes with the ORIGINS Awards, honoring Best Fashion Designer, Best Emerging Designer, Best Storyteller Innovator, and Male and Female Model of the Year.

Learn More At: https://www.instagram.com/origins.guyanafashionfestival/

About ORIGINS
The ORIGINS: Guyana Fashion Festival is a three-day immersive fashion event conceived to celebrate Guyana’s cultural heritage, resilience, and evolving sense of style, while showcasing local talent and global Guyanese icons. Follow ORIGINS on Instagram at @origins.guyanafashionfestival for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Registration Opens for the Cruise Industry’s Only Official Conference in the Caribbean and Latin America

caribpr — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:58:03 +0000

MIRAMAR, Fla., June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The cruise industry is now open for business, as registration is officially open for the FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, the only cruise conference taking place in the Caribbean and Latin America, as well as the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s (FCCA) keynote and only open registration event allowing any attendee to target about 100 high-level cruise executives during an agenda featuring workshops, networking functions, one-on-one meetings, and more.

“This is the only event in the region that puts any attendee in direct contact with cruise executives that can drive business,” said Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corporation & plc and FCCA.

Taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico from October 12-16, preparations are ramping up, including many of the decision-making executives already confirmed – and now is the time to register and lock in opportunities like one-on-one meetings and discounted rates.

“We are proud of this event’s continued success for attendees and so many throughout the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Michele Paige, CEO, FCCA. “It has been the birthplace of everything from new tours to entire destination developments, so we are excited about what this year can bring for all.”

The Conference’s core is built around one-on-one meetings between delegates and cruise executives, with 15-minute sessions to pitch products to and receive individualized input from those who decide where ships call, what sells onboard, and how to invest in destinations and infrastructure.

Anyone registering by August 31 has eligibility to schedule these meetings, with the event looking to break another record after a consecutive five years since the revamped format putting the meetings in the spotlight – and last year’s record featuring 1,030 meeting slots.

An ‘early-bird discount’ also runs until August 31, giving more reason to book early. Pre-registration will be available until October 11. Onsite registration will be offered, but the rate will be at a premium due to potential extra costs for food, transportation, and other event logistics.

For more information and registration, please visit www.FCCAConference.com.

About Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA)

FCCA represents the mutual interests of the cruise industry and the Caribbean and Latin America. It builds bilateral relationships with destination stakeholders and provides forums to interact with executives from FCCA Member Lines that comprise more than 95 percent of the cruise capacity. For more information, visit F-CCA.com.

New Book ‘The Crown’s Silence’ Proves British Monarchy Directly Bankrolled Caribbean Slavery, Exploding Legal Defenses Against Reparations

caribpr — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:00:19 +0000

As the AU Declares the ‘Decade of Reparations’ (2026-2036), Acclaimed Historian Brooke N. Newman Exposes Financial Receipts from the Royal Archives

CARIBPR WIRE, NEW YORK, NY, June 23, 2026: As the African Union officially launches its historic Decade on Reparations and Caribbean nations intensify demands for reparatory justice, a landmark new book has arrived to fundamentally shift the global legal and political ground.

The Crown’s Silence, authored by acclaimed historian Brooke N. Newman, reveals that from the 1560s to 1807, the British monarchy didn’t merely permit the transatlantic slave trade – they directly invested in it, designed it, and amassed vast royal wealth from the labor of millions of enslaved Africans.

Drawing on extensive, newly examined royal archives and manuscripts from the Royal African Company, the South Sea Company, the Royal Navy, and colonial officials, Newman dismantles Britain’s long-standing defense that colonial slavery was strictly the work of private enterprises. Instead, the book presents undeniable archival proof that the Crown was an active architect, investor, and financial beneficiary of the Caribbean slave system.

For Caribbean nations and their diaspora communities, this book serves as critical new evidence. By establishing direct Crown complicity, Newman’s findings fundamentally undermine the moral and legal shields London has historically relied upon to resist financial and structural accountability.

The book’s release comes at a critical geopolitical turning point:

The Global Framework: The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has formally declared the AU Decade on Reparations (2026–2036), running alongside the UN Second International Decade for People of African Descent.
CARICOM’s Legal Push: Led by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the movement has evolved from academic debate into active state-led demands. CARICOM’s 10-Point Plan for Reparatory Justice – including formal apologies and debt cancellation – carries renewed urgency with these newly exposed historical receipts.
Severing Ties: The revelation arrives as multiple Caribbean nations actively reassess their constitutional relationships with the British monarchy and move toward becoming republics.

As Newman demonstrates, four centuries of royal silence have only deferred an inevitable reckoning. The Crown’s Silence proves that contemporary demands for reparations are not new claims, but long-overdue accounts waiting to be settled.

The Crown’s Silence is now available in the US and the UK. For more information, visit www.brookennewman.com/the-crowns-silence.

BAPTIST HEALTH INTERNATIONAL CAYMAN ISLANDS EARNS JOINT COMMISSION INTERNATIONAL RE-ACCREDITATION

caribpr — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:40:35 +0000

Gold Seal of Approval® reaffirms the organization’s commitment to high-quality diagnostic imaging and patient-centered care in the Caribbean.

MIAMI and GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, June 16, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Baptist Health International Cayman Islands, part of Baptist Health South Florida, has earned its third Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, reaffirming its commitment to the highest international standards in quality, safety and patient care.

The accreditation recognizes the organization’s PET & CT Imaging Center, which provides advanced diagnostic imaging services to patients in the Cayman Islands and throughout the Caribbean, helping improve access to high-quality care closer to home.

The Center was awarded JCI’s Gold Seal of Approval® following a rigorous evaluation process that assessed compliance across a broad range of healthcare standards, including patient safety, staff qualifications and competency, quality improvement processes, patient education and emergency preparedness. Baptist Health International Cayman Islands first earned Joint Commission International accreditation in 2020 and is now celebrating its third consecutive accreditation cycle, demonstrating its continued commitment to clinical excellence and continuous improvement.

“Maintaining Joint Commission International accreditation for a third consecutive cycle reflects our unwavering commitment to providing patients in the Cayman Islands and across the Caribbean with access to world-class diagnostic imaging services close to home,” said Rogelio E. Ribas, M.D., corporate vice president of Baptist Health International. “We are proud to continue advancing healthcare excellence in the region through innovation and patient-centered care.”

Equipped with advanced positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) technology, the Imaging Center offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services, supporting the early detection, diagnosis and monitoring of cancer, cardiovascular disease and a variety of other medical conditions. All scans are interpreted by Baptist Health board-certified radiologists based in the United States, providing patients with access to specialized expertise and the resources of Baptist Health’s internationally recognized clinical programs. Since opening in 2019, the Center has helped reduce the need for patients throughout the Caribbean to travel abroad for specialized imaging services by expanding access to advanced diagnostic care closer to home.

Joint Commission International accreditation is recognized worldwide as a benchmark for healthcare quality and patient safety. The designation reflects an organization’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and continuous improvement.

About Baptist Health International

Baptist Health International is one of the largest hospital-based international programs in the United States, with more than 14,000 yearly international patient visits at Baptist Health facilities from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach County. Baptist Health International is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality services for international physicians and their patients, including hospital admissions, outpatient medical exams, electronic medical second opinions and physician consultations, as well as concierge services. For more information, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services. For more information on Baptist Health International’s collaborations and advisory services, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services/international-healthcare-professionals/international-collaborations or email Advisory@baptisthealth.net

About Baptist Health South Florida

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

About Joint Commission International

Joint Commission International (JCI) works to improve patient safety and quality of healthcare in the international community through accreditation, education, advisory services and certification programs. JCI is recognized worldwide as a leader in healthcare quality and patient safety. For more information, visit Joint Commission International.

Afreximbank Deepens Engagement with Jamaica to Drive Trade, Investment and Industrialisation

caribpr — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:55:57 +0000

Afreximbank remains committed to supporting increased intra-Caribbean and Africa-Caribbean trade by improving access to trade finance, investment capital and advisory support

KINGSTON, Jamaica, June 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In a move to highlight the strategic importance of the Jamaican market within the Caribbean and the country’s growing role in regional trade and investment, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank or the Bank) (www.Afreximbank.com) undertook an inaugural roadshow in Kingston, Jamaica, on 2 June 2026.

Organised under the theme, “Empowering Jamaica’s Growth: Catalysing Trade, Investment and Industrialisation through Tailored Afreximbank Solutions,” the roadshow built on the momentum generated by Jamaica’s signing of Afreximbank’s Partnership Agreement in July 2025 and the subsequent approval by the Bank’s Board of Directors of a US$5 billion financing facility for the Caribbean, including Jamaica.

The roadshow attracted strong participation from Jamaica’s business community. It provided an opportunity to raise awareness of Afreximbank’s mandate, mission and vision among key stakeholders in Jamaica, including government representatives, private sector leaders and financial institutions. It also served as a platform to introduce the Bank’s suite of financing, trade facilitation and investment solutions to the Jamaican market for the first time.

In addition, the engagement enabled the Afreximbank delegation to gain valuable insights into Jamaica’s trade and development priorities, investment opportunities, financing needs and business environment. These interactions have further strengthened the Bank’s understanding of the Jamaican market and will help inform the development of tailored solutions to support the country’s economic growth and trade ambitions.

The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Fayval Williams, Minister of Finance and the Public Service. In her remarks, Minister Williams stated: “We understand that, for more than three decades, Afreximbank has been delivering financing solutions that support trade and drive economic growth across Africa. Its reach now extends beyond the continent’s shores, with the Bank establishing a growing presence in the Caribbean. It is clear that the partnership between Afreximbank and Jamaica continues to strengthen. I therefore encourage all Jamaican institutions represented here today to deepen their engagement with Afreximbank so that, together, we can unlock greater opportunities for two-way trade and investment between Jamaica and Africa.”

Also, speaking at the event, Mr. Eric Monchu Intong, Afreximbank’s Group Managing Director, Client Relations and Regional Office Operations, highlighted the Bank’s experience in supporting tourism and hospitality development across Africa and the Caribbean. He said: “At Afreximbank, we believe that industrialisation is the foundation of sustainable trade and economic transformation. To trade successfully with Global Africa, we must first produce. Through investments in industrial parks, special economic zones and local manufacturing, Jamaica has an opportunity to reduce import dependence, increase value-added exports, create jobs and strengthen its economic resilience. This approach has delivered results across 18 African countries, where Afreximbank has supported the development of industrial parks and special economic zones through initiatives such as its US$450 million global credit facility with ARISE IIP, alongside critical trade finance support to businesses across the continent. We believe these lessons and solutions can be adapted to support Jamaica’s industrial growth ambitions and unlock new opportunities for trade, investment and economic development.”

Afreximbank remains committed to supporting increased intra-Caribbean and Africa-Caribbean trade by improving access to trade finance, investment capital and advisory support. The roadshow underscored the Bank’s commitment to advancing the Global Africa agenda and strengthening economic and commercial ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Download Image: https://apo-opa.co/4at3Yes (L-R: Hon. Fayval Williams, Minister of Finance and the Public Service and Mr. Eric Monchu Intong, Afreximbank’s Group Managing Director, Client Relations and Regional Office Operations)

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Afreximbank Deepens Commitment to Economic Progress in The Bahamas

caribpr — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 12:26:53 +0000

The roadshow which took place under the theme “Investing in progress through the implementation of the Afreximbank mandate in The Bahamas” built on the current achievements between the Bank and The Bahamas

CAIRO, June 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) held a high-level roadshow in Nassau, The Bahamas, on 29 May, aimed at deepening engagement with key stakeholders and businesses across the government, the private sector, and financial institutions across the country.

Organised as part of the Bank’s broad strategy to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, the roadshow which took place under the theme “Investing in progress through the implementation of the Afreximbank mandate in The Bahamas” built on the current achievements between the Bank and The Bahamas to explore more opportunities for shared prosperity.

The roadshow follows an approval by the Board of Directors of Afreximbank of a financing facility of up to US$ 5-billion for the Caribbean region, including The Bahamas. This approval signals Afreximbank’s commitment to advancing the objectives of the Global Africa agenda by strengthening commercial and financial ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

The event was officiated by the Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas and well attended by the business community in The Bahamas, provided a platform for Afreximbank to showcase its suite of financing, advisory and trade facilitation solutions available to businesses and institutions in The Bahamas and to foster stronger institutional partnerships.

Speaking at the roadshow, the Prime Minister said: “Economic growth must translate into broader economic participation, ensuring that more Bahamians have the chance to build businesses, create jobs, and share in the country’s progress. We have made some progress in this area, but continuing to strengthen access to capital through institutions such as the Afreximbank is an important part of our ongoing efforts.”

“This roadshow also reminds us of the importance of regional and international cooperation at a time when many economies are navigating uncertainty,” he added.

While making his opening remarks, Mr. Ihejirika said: “In less than three years of operations within the CARICOM, Afreximbank has demonstrated a strong commitment to economic development in the region, especially in The Bahamas by supporting key projects across critical sectors. To date, the Bank has facilitated approximately USD 140 million in infrastructure financing through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, while also extending USD 30 million in support to the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector. These investments underscore Afreximbank’s mandate to drive sustainable growth, enhance economic resilience, and expand opportunities for businesses and communities throughout The Bahamas.”

Other notable speakers who attended the event include Honourable Michael B. Halkitis, Minister of Finance and Honourable Ginger M. Moxey, Minister of Grand Bahama, Mr. Atario Mitchell, President, Bahamas Stripping Group of Companies and Mr. Kino Simmons, Managing Director CAT Island Development Company.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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Caption – L-R: Honourable Michael B. Halkitis, Minister of Finance, The Bahamas, Mr. Okechukwu Ihejirika, Ag. Regional Chief Operating Officer, Afreximbank Caribbean Office, Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas and Honourable Ginger M. Moxey, Minister of Grand Bahama
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About Afreximbank:

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) at “Stable”, Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), and Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

PayPal Brings PayPal USD to Users Across 70 Markets

caribpr — Wed, 20 May 2026 15:36:32 +0000

Now accessible to millions of PayPal consumers and merchants, PayPal USD helps provide stable purchasing power and enable lower-cost global commerce

May Zabaneh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crypto PayPal

PayPal USD (PYUSD)

CARIBPR WIRE, SAN JOSE, Calif., May 20, 2026: PayPal today announced it is making PayPal USD (PYUSD) available in 70 markets worldwide in the PayPal account. This dollar-backed stablecoin enables users to send funds globally, with faster settlement and lower cost than traditional payment methods.

As global commerce becomes increasingly digital, individuals and businesses are looking for faster and more seamless ways to transact across borders. Stablecoins like PYUSD help power an inclusive, fast, lower cost,global commerce system.

“Consumers and businesses around the world are looking for faster, more seamless ways to transact globally and the current system still charges too much, takes too long, and settles on timelines that were designed for a different era,” said May Zabaneh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crypto, PayPal. “We are working to change that. Enabling PYUSD in users accounts across 70 markets gives people faster access to their funds, lower-cost ways to send money across borders, and a more direct path to participating in the global economy and that is what drives commerce forward for everyone.”

Users in newly supported markets can buy, hold, send, and receive PYUSD directly from their PayPal account.¹ Additionally, eligible users can earn rewards on their PYUSD holdings², can instantly transfer funds to friends and family, whether on PayPal or to third-party digital wallets, and convert PYUSD to local currency when withdrawing funds³ for everyday spending.

Businesses that accept PYUSD can use proceeds in minutes rather than days or weeks, improving liquidity and reducing reliance on traditional settlement cycles. Faster access to funds can help businesses manage working capital, support cross-border operations, and participate in global commerce.

Following the launch of PYUSD in the United States in 2023, this expansion is another critical step in creating the liquidity, utility, and ubiquity of PYUSD necessary to create a more inclusive, global commerce ecosystem. By making it available in more places through PayPal, PYUSD helps consumers send funds internationally at lower cost, while enabling businesses to settle faster, reduce foreign payment fees, and access proceeds more quickly.

PYUSD, a US federally regulated stablecoin, is now available to users in their PayPal accounts across multiple global regions, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America¹. This includes Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Peru, Singapore⁴, the United Kingdom, and the United States. PayPal users in the remaining markets will have access to PYUSD in the coming weeks.

For more information about PYUSD, please visit www.paypal.com/pyusd.

¹ User experience may vary based on local regulations and PayPal experience.

² Rewards are not available to Singapore or United Kingdom-based users. Rewards rate will be determined at all times in PayPal’s sole discretion, is not guaranteed, and is subject to change. Terms Apply.

³ Terms and conditions apply.

⁴ PYUSD will only be available to PayPal business account holders in Singapore. PYUSD will not be available to Singapore based consumers.

About PayPal USD (PYUSD)

PayPal USD is issued by Paxos Trust Company, N.A., a fully-chartered trust company regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Reserves for PayPal USD are fully backed by U.S. dollar deposits, U.S. Treasuries and similar cash equivalents, and PayPal USD can be bought or sold through PayPal and Venmo at a rate of $1.00 per PayPal USD.

PayPal, Inc. (NMLS ID #: 910457) is licensed to engage in Virtual Currency Business Activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services.

About PayPal

PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.paypal.com, https://about.pypl.com/ and https://investor.pypl.com/.

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iQor Qares Raises More Than $380,000 at 9th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

caribpr — Wed, 06 May 2026 14:48:02 +0000

“Swing for a Cause” Event at Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course Supports Employees Facing Financial Hardship Worldwide

CARIBPR WIRE FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 06, 2026: iQor Qares, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of iQor, today announced today that its 9th Annual “Swing for a Cause” Charity Golf Tournament raised a record-setting $380,000+ to support employees and their families facing financial hardship worldwide.

Held at the world-renowned Valspar Championship Copperhead Golf Course at Innisbrook in Palm Harbor, Florida, the event brought together sponsors, partners, and members of the iQor community under iQor’s culture of care to help those when they need it most.

“Every dollar raised represents meaningful support for someone in our iQor community,” said Richard Eychner, Chief Culture Officer at iQor and Chair of iQor Qares. “This event demonstrates the collective commitment of our sponsors, partners, and employees to helping one another in times of need.”

This year’s tournament received support from platinum-level sponsors Exato and Cisco with Verinext, gold-level sponsors Capital One Auto Finance, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Joy Systems, NiCE and LiveVox, Sanas, and Sudolabs, as well as additional sponsors, donors, and participants.

One hundred percent of net proceeds from the tournament fund employee grants, providing financial assistance for medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other life-altering events.

“At a time when I felt vulnerable and unsure of how to move forward, iQor Qares allowed me to focus on healing instead of worrying about how I would get through each month,” said iQor Qares recipient Neliza Fernandez, who received support after a stroke required an extended leave from work.

In 2025, iQor Qares:

Granted $299,788 to employees in need
Supported 1,051 employees and their families
Received contributions from more than 8,600 employees
Delivered aid across 28 sites in India, Trinidad & Tobago, the Philippines, and the United States
Provided 60 natural disaster grants

“The place where our house once stood was nothing but mud, scattered debris, and silence. iQor Qares stepped in and gave us relief during our hardest moments and helped us find the strength to rebuild,” said iQor Qares recipient Rhoda Daria, who received assistance following a natural disaster.

Funds raised from the 2026 tournament will expand iQor Qares’ ability to provide assistance to employees globally. For more information or to donate, visit iQorQares.com.

About iQor
iQor is a trusted partner in customer experience solutions for global brands and a portfolio company of Mill Point Capital. With 45,000 employees across 11 countries, iQor combines three decades of expertise with AI-driven innovation to optimize performance across the entire customer lifecycle. Through its three delivery pillars — Grow, CXBPO, and infinityAiQ — iQor delivers scalable solutions that drive acquisition, engagement, and retention. Powered by advanced analytics and a people-first culture, iQor transforms customer interactions into measurable growth. Recognized as a Great Place to Work® and a leader in CX excellence, iQor empowers brands to grow smarter. Learn more at iQor.com.

iQor Qares recauda más de 380.000 dólares en el 9.º torneo anual de golf benéfico

El evento “Swing for a Cause” en el campo Copperhead de Innisbrook apoya a los empleados que enfrentan dificultades financieras en todo el mundo

CARIBPR WIRE, FT. LAUDERDALE, Florida, May 06, 2026: iQor Qares, la organización sin fines de lucro 501(c)(3) de iQor, anunció hoy que su 9.º torneo benéfico anual de golf “Swing for a Cause” recaudó una cifra récord de más de 380.000 dólares para apoyar a empleados y sus familias que enfrentan dificultades económicas en todo el mundo.

Celebrado en el mundialmente reconocido campo de golf Valspar Championship Copperhead, en Innisbrook en Palm Harbor, Florida, el evento reunió a patrocinadores, socios y miembros de la comunidad iQor, en línea con la cultura de cuidado de iQor para ayudar a quienes más necesitan.

“Cada dólar recaudado representa un apoyo significativo para alguien dentro de nuestra comunidad de iQor”, afirmó Richard Eychner, Chief Culture Officer de iQor y presidente de iQor Qares. “Este evento demuestra el compromiso colectivo de nuestros patrocinadores, socios y empleados para ayudarse mutuamente en momentos de necesidad”.

El torneo de este año contó con el apoyo de los patrocinadores de nivel platino Exato y Cisco con Verinext, patrocinadores de nivel oro como Capital One Auto Finance, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Joy Systems, NiCE y LiveVox, Sanas y Sudolabs, además de otros patrocinadores, donantes y participantes.

El cien por ciento de los ingresos netos del torneo se destina a subvenciones para empleados, proporcionando asistencia financiera en casos de emergencias médicas, desastres naturales y otros eventos que cambian la vida.

“En un momento en el que me sentía vulnerable e insegura sobre cómo seguir adelante, iQor Qares me permitió concentrarme en mi recuperación en lugar de preocuparme por cómo afrontar cada mes”, señaló Neliza Fernandez, beneficiaria de iQor Qares, quien recibió apoyo tras sufrir un derrame cerebral que requirió una licencia prolongada.

En 2025, iQor Qares:

Otorgó 299.788 dólares a empleados necesitados
Apoyó a 1.051 empleados y sus familias
Recibió contribuciones de más de 8.600 empleados
Brindó ayuda en 28 centros en India, Trinidad y Tobago, Filipinas y Estados Unidos
Otorgó 60 subvenciones por desastres naturales

“El lugar donde se encontraba nuestra casa, no era más que barro, escombros dispersos y silencio. iQor Qares intervino y nos brindó alivio en nuestros momentos más difíciles, ayudándonos a encontrar la fuerza para reconstruir”, comentó Rhoda Daria, beneficiaria de iQor Qares tras un desastre natural.

Los fondos recaudados en el torneo de 2026 ampliarán la capacidad de iQor Qares para ofrecer asistencia a empleados a nivel global. Para más información o para donar, visite iQorQares.com.

Acerca de iQor
iQor es un socio de confianza en soluciones de experiencia del cliente para marcas globales y una empresa del portafolio de Mill Point Capital. Con 45.000 empleados en 11 países, iQor combina tres décadas de experiencia con innovación impulsada por IA para optimizar el desempeño a lo largo de todo el ciclo de vida del cliente. A través de sus tres pilares de entrega —Grow, CXBPO e infinityAiQ—, iQor ofrece soluciones escalables que impulsan la adquisición, el compromiso y la retención. Impulsada por analítica avanzada y una cultura centrada en las personas, iQor transforma las interacciones con los clientes en crecimiento medible. Reconocida como Great Place to Work® y líder en excelencia en CX, iQor ayuda a las marcas a crecer de forma más inteligente. Para más información visite, iQor.com.

Casa Maestri Unveils Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cream – A First-of-Its-Kind Tequila Cream Inspired by a Global Viral Sensation

caribpr — Tue, 05 May 2026 13:21:13 +0000

JALISCO, Mexico and HOUSTON, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Casa Maestri, NOM 1438, one of the world’s leading private-label tequila producers, announces the launch of its newest innovation: Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cream, a luxurious tequila-based cream liqueur designed to capture one of the fastest-growing global flavor trends.

Blending premium tequila with velvety pistachio cream and rich chocolate, this new release delivers a decadent, indulgent profile inspired by the opulence of Dubai’s confectionery culture. The result is a smooth, sophisticated spirit that bridges dessert and tequila in a way the category has never seen before.

“This product represents where the spirits industry is heading,” said Celia Maestri, CEO of Casa Maestri. “Consumers are no longer just buying alcohol, they are buying experiences, flavors, and stories. With Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cream, we are delivering all three in one bottle.”

The launch comes at a pivotal moment in consumer demand. Pistachio chocolate has seen explosive global growth, with viral momentum generating tens of millions in sales and over 100 million social media impressions in just months.

Casa Maestri is the first scaled tequila producer to bring this trend into the alcohol space, creating a new subcategory within cream liqueurs.

Product Highlights:

Category: Tequila Cream Liqueur
ABV: 15% (30 Proof)
Format: 750 ml
Base: Premium tequila blended with natural pistachio and chocolate flavors
Profile: Smooth, creamy, indulgent with notes of roasted pistachio, cocoa, and subtle agave warmth

Unlike traditional cream liqueurs, Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Cream is crafted to appeal to both tequila drinkers and dessert enthusiasts, opening new consumption occasions across retail, on-premise, and travel channels.

“This is more than a flavor launch, it’s a category expansion,” added Jose Coira, VP of Global Business Development “We are giving retailers something new that consumers are already searching for.”

The product is now available for distribution globally, with rollout plans targeting key U.S., European, and travel retail markets.

About Casa Maestri

Casa Maestri, NOM 1438, is a family-owned tequila distillery based in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. Known for producing over 300 private-label brands distributed in more than 90 countries, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with innovation to shape the future of the agave spirits industry.

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