Official newsletter

newsletter110 ( .pdf )

The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission

ISSUE No. 110 May 2006


On Thursday 1st June, Prime
Minister the Honourable Baldwin
Spencer and the Prime Minister of
Japan Junichiro Koizumi, were
engaged in lengthy discussions on ..
wide ranging issues of concern to both
nations.

Prime Minister Koizumi, who
indicated that he was made aware that
Antigua and Barbuda's main industry is
tourism, advised Antigua and Barbuda
to immediately commence marketing
the country in Japan and suggested
that sustained marketing will result in
increased number of travellers
knowing about the Caribbean island
and wanting to visit. Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer (thirdfrom left) andhis delegation
with Prime .Minister Xoizumi (thirtfrom right) of Japan
He pointed out that every year
over 16 million Japanese travel abroad and Antigua and Barbuda should market itself in Japan to capture a share of that
huge travelling market.

Prime Minister Spencer updated the Japanese Prime Minister on the country's marketing strategy along with its
position on a number of issues ranging from United Nations reform to the sustainable management of the world's resources.

Both leaders also spent a great deal of time discussing sports, tourism, natural disaster management and
fisheries.

The Japanese leader pledged his country's continued
Inside cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda in its
Finance Ministry heightens awareness on the Antigua and developmental efforts.
Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST)
Government to remain seized with Internet gaming Both countries have signalled their intention to sign a
Dispute with the United States (pages 4 to 5) technical cooperation agreement after approval from
Antigua and Barbuda delegation in Japan holds the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs.
successful meetings (pages 7 to 8)
Deal on merchant shipping signed with Cyprus (page 12)




2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Street, London W1H 4LP


WIl`.i p iwIy.m-barbuda.com


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486








A MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY

DR CARL ROBERTS, HIGH COMMISSIONER


Dear Readers,


On the 6th June 2006, the High
Commission was represented at a Panel
discussion, sponsored by the Royal
Commonwealth Society, entitled 'Doves
and Dragons Is China a threat or
opportunity to the Commonwealth'?

This was a very important topic for us
since China has been very helpful to many
countries in the Caribbean including Antigua
and Barbuda, hence our attendance.

The panelists were Mr Duncan Innis-
Kerr, Editor of the China Report, The
Economist/Economist Intelligence Unit and
Mr Jonathan Galea, Political Officer,
Asia/Pacific; Commonwealth Secretariat
Political Affairs Division. Mr Galea was
speaking on his own behalf and not for the
Secretariat.

Both presentations were excellent
even though there was not much of a debate


as both speakers seemed to be in general
agreement that China's impact on the
Commonwealth was positive.

China, being the 4th largest economy
in world is definitely in a position to, and often
does, assist developing countries with
infrastructure projects. For instance, in
Antigua and Barbuda, the Chinese are
building our state-of-the-art Sir Vivian
Richards Stadium to enable us to properly
play our part in hosting the Cricket World
Cup in 2007. From all accounts this work is
proceeding very well, thanks to the Chinese
workforce which is dedicated, disciplined and
hard-working. This is only one of a long line
of projects involving China's assistance.

During a visit to China in November
2004 Prime Minister Spencer, in a meeting
with Vice President Zeng Qinghong said that,
'over the 21 years since the establishment of
diplomatic ties between Antigua and
Barbuda and China, the bilateral political
relations have been strengthened constantly
and economic and trade cooperation has
made great achievements. The Antigua and
Barbuda government will continue to follow
the one-China policy, [and] highly
compliments China's contributions to
maintaining world peace and security and
[the government] stands ready to work with
China to push forward and enhance the
economic and trade cooperation between
the Caribbean countries and China.'


Our country's views have not
changed.


China is the largest developing
country in the world, and we have much to
gain by working closely with our 'big brother'
and trust that that perception is mutual.


Dr Carl Roberts
High Commissioner








I N 1 y


Antigua and Barbuda
reacts to Indictments of
Gaming Operators

On the 18th May, Antiguan
government officials reacted to news that
the United States Department of Justice
had released indictments of two
Antiguan residents on money laundering
charges related to their operation of an
Antiguan based and licensed gaming
service provider.

The charges, contained in an
indictment dated 7 April 2005, accuse
William Scott and Jessica Davis of
violating United States anti-money
laundering laws through their operation
of World Wide Telesports, or WWTS.
Ironically, the allegations hinge on
purported violations by the two of United
States legislation known as the "Wire
Act" and the "Travel Act," the application
of both of which to gaming operators
from Antigua was found last year by the
World Trade Organisation to be contrary
to the American obligations under WTO
law.

Antigua's Ambassador to the
WTO, Dr. John W. Ashe, does not see
the indictments and Antigua's WTO
victory to be unrelated. "These
indictments, coming down at a time when
the United States is supposed to be
undertaking efforts to comply with the
rulings of the WTO, are surely no
coincidence. It is more than just a little
ironic that the United States Department
of Justice has chosen to single out for
prosecution a well-known gaming
service provider from Antigua, a
jurisdiction that has been leading global
efforts to license, regulate, supervise and
oversee a robust yet clean and safe
gaming industry over the Internet-and
the only jurisdiction to take on the United
States at the World Trade Organisation-
and win-on this exact issue."


Under WTO procedures, the
United States had until 3 April 2006 to
comply with the rulings of the WTO in the
gambling case. Having initially stated
that coming into compliance would
involve significant legislative efforts, the
United States made a surprise
announcement at the WTO meeting last
month that it was already in compliance
with the adverse ruling, despite having
taken no apparent corrective action at all.
The parties are in the early stages of a
process at the WTO whereby a panel will
review the current situation and assess
the status of United States compliance.
"We are looking forward to this review
process," said Dr. Ashe, "and we feel
very confident that once again the WTO
will agree with us that the United States'
position on Internet gaming from our
country is simply trade discrimination-
disguised restrictions on trade in
services in violation of the WTO
agreements. In the year since we won
our case, facts have only gotten better
for Antigua and worse for the United
States."

The indictments do not allege
that Mr. Scott and Ms. Davis engaged in
any money laundering conduct other
than by virtue of conducting the ordinary
business of a licensed Antiguan gaming
company, conduct that not only is lawful
in Antigua, but much of which is clearly
lawful in the United States as well.

The Antiguan Solicitor General
and Chairman of Antigua's Financial
Services Regulatory Commission, Mr.
Lebrecht Hesse, announced that the
Antiguan government would be
contacting the United States directly to
lodge a protest over the latest action of
the Department of Justice. "Coming at a
time when Antigua and the United States
are expected to be working together on a
reasonable solution to our dispute, these
indictments announced by the
Americans yesterday-which I note have
been laying unsealed, in secret, since
they were returned over a year ago-are


pretty incredible. We trust that these
indictments do not represent the
official position of the United States
government and rather represent the
work of some over-zealous prosecutor.
We look forward to the US
administration's prompt clarification of
this most unfortunate incident."

Turning to the subjects of the
indictments, Mr. Hesse observed as
Chairman of the FSRC "both of these
individuals have been through the
extensive due diligence process we
subject all major participants in our
gaming industry to, and both have
been found fit and proper to conduct
this kind of regulated business in
Antigua. To our knowledge, Mr. Scott
and Ms. Davis-Dyett have been law-
abiding citizens since coming to this
country some years ago."

Finance Ministry
heightens awareness on
the Antigua and Barbuda
Sales Tax (ABST)

The Inland Revenue
Department is proceeding with a
registration drive in preparation for the
Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax
(ABST)

According to Co-ordinator of
the ABST Implementation Team Mr.
Everton Gonsalves, efforts are being
made to ensure that all stakeholders
are properly sensitized on the Antigua
and Barbuda Sales Tax.

To this end, prospective
registrants can expect to receive
registration materials and invitations to
attend registration and training
seminars which commenced on May
23rd.

The Antigua and Barbuda
Sales Tax Act provides for the


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com








Issue No 10Ma20


imposition, collection, and administration
of a broad-based tax on consumption in
Antigua and Barbuda, which will replace
a number of existing, less-efficient taxes.
The tax is modelled on the "value added"
type consumption taxes in use in over
120 countries around the world, including
many of the other countries in the
Caribbean region.

ABST is a single rate, broad-
based, multi-stage transaction tax,
imposed and collected at each stage in
the chain of production and distribution.
The tax will be collected by businesses,
but the final tax burden is intended to fall
on domestic consumers. The broad base
of the tax will limit the distortions
produced by the current taxation regime
and provide for simpler compliance and
administration than the existing raft of
taxes being replaced.

Mr. Gonsalves added that the
ABST is likely to replace a number of
existing taxes including the Consumption
Tax, the Hotels Tax, the Hotel Guest
Levy, Restaurant and Catering Services
Tax and the Telecommunications Tax.

A standard rate of 15 per cent is
been considered for the Antigua and
Barbuda Sales Tax however, a special
introductory rate will be offered to hotels.

The ABST is likely to take effect
in the third quarter of 2006.



Ministry of Tourism
launches Team 2K7 for
Milestone Celebration Year
2007

The Ministry of Tourism has
announced the establishment of a
national steering committee to oversee
the country's entertainment activities for
2007 which will be a monumental year of
celebration for Antigua and Barbuda.


Tourism Minister Harold Lovell,
who heads the committee, officially
launched "Team 2K7" in a media event
on Thursday 25th May, when the details
of the committee's plans for 2006 and
2007 was outlined.

"Work has begun in earnest but
I am elated at the progress we have
made to date. I am more confident now
than ever that Antigua and Barbuda will
put on a magnificent, high quality
showcase of our culture and natural
environment, so that visitors and
residents alike will have an unforgettably
enjoyable experience during the various
milestone activities to be celebrated
during 2007," the Minister noted.

These events include ICC CWC
2007, the 20th anniversary of the Classic
Yacht Regatta, the 40th anniversary of
Sailing Week and the 50th anniversary of
Carnival.

Team 2K7's kick off activity will
be an after cricket lime dubbed "A Taste
of 2007" in downtown St. John's on
Sunday June 4th, followed by a public
Input Session on June 22 during which
members of the public will be
encouraged to share their ideas and
volunteer for the various sub-committees.

The National Theme Contest to
identify the phrase which best captures
the spirit of the nation during the 2007
milestone year of celebration has been
extended. All residents of Antigua and
Barbuda are eligible, and entries should
be 10 words or less, and should be
contained to one theme per person.

Entrants grant the Ministry of
Tourism and Civil Aviation the right to
use and publish the submission in print,
online or in any other media in
connection with the theme and or
activities, without compensation.

Submissions should be
accompanied by a summary in not more


than 25 50 words of your
interpretation of the submitted theme.
The deadline for submissions has been
extended to Monday 26 June, 2006,
and should be addressed to the
Manager of education awareness and
training Mrs. Cynthia Simon.

"2007 will present a perfect
opportunity for our store operators,
promoters, entertainers, vendors,
entrepreneurs and volunteers to show
the world what we in Antigua and
Barbuda can produce deliver. We need
everyone to come on board and help
make this a resounding success," said
Minister Lovell.

Government to remain
seized with Internet
gaming dispute with the
United States

On 25th May, Minister of
Finance and the Economy, Dr. L Errol
Cort, reassured the nation that his
government remains seized with the
matter of the WTO dispute on Internet
gaming between the Antigua and
Barbuda and the United States.

"The United States and us
have just agreed on and jointly
submitted to the WTO's Dispute
Settlement Body (DSB), a set of
procedures known as a "Sequencing
Agreement," with the US regarding the
timeframe for the establishment of a
compliance panel by the DSB to
determine if the United States has
implemented the recommendations
and rulings of the DSB and if it remains
out of compliance with its WTO
obligations," said the Minister.

The Minister went on to add
that if the DSB finds that the United
States failed to comply with that body's
recommendations and rulings, or that a
measure taken by the United States to


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com








I N 1 y


comply with the recommendations and
rulings is inconsistent with a covered
agreement, his government reserved the
right to request authorization to suspend
concessions or other obligations under
the relevant WTO provisions.

The Minister also expressed his
government's concern with pending
legislation before the House Judiciary
Committee of the US Congress.

He stated, "I have requested
our Ambassador to the WTO,
Ambassador John Ashe, to write to
Chairman of the Judiciary Committee,
Mr. James Sensenbrenner, and inform
him of my government's concern with
legislation introduced into the United
States Congress on 16 February 2006
entitled the "Internet Gambling
Prohibition Act" (the "Goodlatte Bill"), and
similar legislation, introduced on 18
November 2005 as H.R. 4411, cited as
the "Unlawful Internet Gambling
Enforcement Act of 2005" (the "Leach
Bill")," he said. "We are concerned that
these Bills may be expressly contrary to
the rulings and recommendations of the
DSB," he added.

Ms. Kaye McDonald, Director of
Gaming, Financial Services Regulatory
Commission also expressed concern
with the Bills. "We note, on the one hand,
that the Goodlatte Bill, which is cast as
an amendment to the US federal criminal
statute known as the "Wire Act," is
designed to expand the coverage of the
Wire Act to most types of gambling
services offered over the Internet, and on
the other hand, the Leach Bill seeks to
criminalise facilitation of or participation
in certain financial transactions
associated with what the legislation
defines as "unlawful Internet gambling,"
she said.

Mark Mendel, the legal adviser
to the government on this matter added
that a settlement was proposed to the
then United States Trade


Representative, Ambassador Robert
Zoellick, almost two years ago now, after
the WTO panel report was first released
to both parties.

"An approached was made to
Amb Zoellick with a view towards
reaching an accommodation between
both parties prior to the release of the
panel report, that would in essence, use
the Antigua-based industry as a "test
case" of sorts, since we believed that a
thoughtful study of the gaming industry in
cooperation with US would demonstrate
the efficacy of Antigua and Barbuda's
regulatory scheme and the ability of the
government to adequately supervise this
kind of activity," he said.

"In my communication to the
Chairman Sensenbrenner, I informed
him that Minister Cort remains available
to meet with the members of the
Judiciary Committee to discuss the
pending legislation and their impact on
the WTO dispute," said Ambassador
Ashe.



Statement by H.E. Edwin
W. Carrington, Secretary-
General, Caribbean
Community (CARICOM) on
the occasion of the
Inaugural Caribbean-
American Heritage Month,
June 2006

"We, the peoples of the
Caribbean, both in the Homeland and in
the Diaspora, will without doubt always
remember the sixth month of the sixth
year of the 21st century. It is both an
historic and a momentous occasion, as
on 5 June 2006 the President of the
United States of America, George W.
Bush, officially proclaimed June 2006
Caribbean-American Heritage Month.


For centuries, the United
States of America has benefited from
the contributions of the sons and
daughters of the Caribbean. As stated
by the President, "We celebrate the
great contributions of the Caribbean-
American, to the fabric of our nation
and we pay tribute to the common
culture and bonds of friendship that
unite the United States and Caribbean
Countries. Our nation has thrived as a
country of immigrants and we are more
vibrant and hopeful because of the
talent, faith and values of Caribbean-
Americans. For centuries Caribbean-
Americans have enriched our society
and added to the strength of America."

The President pointed to
Caribbean-Americans being "leaders
in Government, sports, entertainment,
the arts and many other fields."
Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-
Oakland), lead sponsor of the Bill
which was passed in the Congress in
February of this year, and to whom our
profound gratitude goes, cites a long
list of Caribbean people and their
descendants in this regard, including:
"Alexander Hamilton, Hazel Scott,
Sidney Poiter, Jean Michelle Basquit,
Eric Holder, Colin Powell, Susan
Taylor, Edwidge Danticat, Kelsey
Grammer, Jean Baptiste Point Du
Sable, Roberto Clemente, Maryse
Conde, Cecily Tyson, Harry Belafonte,
Celia Cruz, Mervyn Dymally and
Shirley Chisholm." Congresswoman
Lee and her co-sponsors truly deserve
our gratitude for providing the voice
that strongly called for the recognition
of the people of the Caribbean
Diaspora.

In marking this historic step in
the strengthening of ties between the
Caribbean and the United States, it
would be remiss not to pay tribute to
the Institute of Caribbean Studies for
the very important role it played in
lobbying for the recognition of this
month as Caribbean-American


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com








Issue No 10Ma20


Heritage Month. Since 1999, the Institute
has been observing June as Caribbean-
American Heritage month. In addition, its
efforts to make the celebrations
nationwide this year must be highly
commended.

This is therefore, definitely a
time for celebration for the people of the
Caribbean, be they in the Homeland or in
the Diaspora. In so doing however, let us
not forget that there are even more
valuable benefits to be gained from such
an observance. And, while we greatly
value and give due praise to the sterling
contributions Caribbean-Americans have
made to the United States in a wide
variety of fields, we must always
remember the intrinsic bonds that forever
bind the Diaspora to the Caribbean
region.

During the lecture series to
commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of
the Caribbean Community in 2003, the
former Prime Minister of Jamaica, the
Most Honourable P.J Patterson used the
occasion to speak directly to the
Caribbean Diaspora. He was of the firm
view that persons of Caribbean descent
needed to come together to advance
concerns of common interest to all
CARICOM countries, concerns relating
to trade and investment issues,
developments in US immigration policy,
security matters, the narcotics trafficking,
gun-smuggling and criminal deportees.

The Caribbean Diaspora, he
emphasised, needed to continue as an
essential partner in Caribbean
civilisation. All needed to be involved!
It is in this spirit that it behoves us all to
keep working to strengthen the ties that
already exist between the peoples of the
Caribbean and of the United States, as
we launch this inaugural Caribbean-
American Heritage Month."


Day against drug abuse
and illicit trafficking to be
observed

Students in learning institutions
in Antigua and Barbuda will play a very
important part in this year's observance
of International Day Against Drug Abuse
and Illicit Trafficking, which will be
observed on 26th June 2006.

Norma Dorsett, Substance
Abuse Prevention Officer from the
Substance Abuse Prevention Division,
said her department (a division of the
Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social
Transformation) has organized an essay
competition for students from primary to
tertiary levels under the theme, "The
Role I Can Play in the Fight Against Drug
Use/Abuse in Antigua & Barbuda."

Dorsett said judges will review
the various entries, make an assessment
and determine the best essay for each of
the four categories from primary, junior
secondary, secondary and tertiary
institutions.

Participants in the competition
will not be labouringg in vain' as there are
great prizes up for grabs including a
laptop and desktop computer, digital
camera, ipod and Mp3 players.

Meantime, Dorsett said plans
are coming together for the staging of a
march in recognition of International Day
Against Drug Abuse, which will be held
under the theme, "Partners Against Drug
- Join the Fight."

"We are hoping to send a strong
message to the community that we are
against illicit drugs and will do whatever
we can to reduce and even stop the use
of the substances that are causing great
problems on our community", Dorsett
said.


BAIG's commitment to
tackle the diseases of the
developing world

A year ago, the Biomedical
Industry Advisory Group (BIAG)
offered its submission to the World
Health Organisation Commission on
Intellectual Property Rights Innovation
and Public Health (CIPIH).

The submission was selected
from the expertise and insights of
thousands of their colleagues across
the globe in the biomedical industry.

The BIAG's intent then and
now is to foster a global dialogue on
how best to ease the burden of
diseases that disproportionately affect
the developing world, and examine
ways to spur the discovery,
development and delivery of innovative
therapeutics to improve public health
worldwide.

The Biomedical Industry
stands ready to strengthen its already
substantial investments in innovative
treatments, training and other solutions
that save and improve lives around the
world.

The BIAG has renewed its
commitment to improving the quality of
public health in the developing world.
(BIAG Secretariat) (http://biag.org).


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com








I N 1 y


submitted by a young member of the
iAntiguan Diaspora, we hope you
enjoy it as much we do.
I I
I I
I I
I I





There it lies, a speck in the Caribbean
Sea
I I






365 beaches, swaying palms,
Awesome Antigua, Awesome
Antigua.
Jolly, Jumby and Grand,
Special Safaris and sailing seas.
Tiny towns and tall townsmen,
Big broad, banks,
I I













S They don't use Francs,a
Have a nice swim
3 Or go to a Gym,
Try Antigua,
You'll love it!!!



By: Adam C. Samuel in
iAge: 12
Bagenham, Essex
I I






...........................................


Antigua and Barbuda
delegation in Japan holds
successful meetings


Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer
I I















and Tourism Minister Harold Lovell
I I











described the first day of official
meetings in Japan with government
officials as being very successful.

The delegation which also
comprises Ambassador to Japan and the
International Whaling Commission
Anthony Liverpool, held meetings with
the Japanese Association of Travel


(teft to right) Ambassador Anthony Liverpool foreign Minister of
Japan Tara Aso, Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer anduTourism and
AndCivilAviation Minister HaroCdLoveCC


Agents, Parliamentary Secretary for
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Yasushi Kaneko, the Whaling Caucus of
the Liberal Democratic Party and Foreign
Affairs Minister Taro Aso.

Tourism Minister Harold Lovell
said that the meeting with the Japanese
Association of Travel Agents was an eye
opener as the Antigua and Barbuda
delegation was encouraged to tap into
the lucrative Japanese tourist market.

He noted that in addition to the
country being invited to participate in the
World Tourism Fair to be held in Japan in
September of this year, an offer was
made to provide assistance to Antigua
and Barbuda to develop a Japanese
Tourism website to expose Japanese
travellers to Antigua and Barbuda.

"Japan is an untapped market,
but a market with tremendous potential.
The JATA representative is of the view
that the Caribbean area is ripe for
development in terms of Japanese
tourists. We discuss the real possibility
of promoting multi-destination marketing
whereby its not only Antigua and
Barbuda but the entire OECS. JATA will
be prepared to work with US to reap


economic benefits from having a
presence in Japan to facilitate
marketing the region here," Minister
Lovell said

The issue of direct flights
between Antigua and Barbuda was
addressed and it was suggested that
connections from the USA to Antigua
and Barbuda for Japanese tourists can
be utilized. Minister Lovell mentioned
with the direct flights to Antigua from
Atlanta by Delta Airlines and the
American Airlines flight from US ports
into Antigua via Puerto Rico.

It was also recommended that
Antigua and Barbuda collaborate with
other OECS countries to jointly market
the Caribbean in Japan. The JATA
official recommended that Antigua and
Barbuda should establish a system in
Japan for daily contact between the
Japanese Travel Agents Association
and Antigua and Barbuda. This,
Minister Lovell said will be further
explored by Ambassador Anthony
Liverpool.


Prime
Spencer said
highlighted the


Minister
that the
potential


Baldwin
meeting
for the


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


www.antigua-barbuda.com


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486









I II,~~R~


development of the travel business
between Japan and Antigua and
Barbuda. He said that his government is
looking forward to putting the necessary
mechanisms in place to ensure that
Antigua and Barbuda taps into the
Japanese travel market.

Commenting on his meetings
with the Foreign Minister of Japan and
other members of parliament, Prime
Minister Spencer said that they were
very productive resulting in the Japanese
government pledging further technical
cooperation.

On the issue of whaling he said
that Antigua and Barbuda shares the
same position with Japan for scientific
monitoring and the sustainable use of
whales. This position he said will be
articulated by Antigua and Barbuda at
the upcoming International Whaling
Commission meeting in St. Kitts in June.

"We discussed a wide range of
issues including United Nations reform
and Japan's technical cooperation
programme with Antigua and Barbuda.
We outlined that the government is fully
supportive of sustainable use of the
world's resources and in that concept we
support Japan's position on whaling. I
am of the view that our meetings so far


have firmed up our relations and it will
result in the relationship deepening," said
the Prime Minister.

Both Prime Minister Spencer
and Minister Lovell underscored the
need for a greater bond with Japan that
will extend beyond cooperation in
fisheries.

The Antigua and Barbuda
delegation also visited the largest fish
market in the world.

Antigua and Barbuda
makes case for
Vulnerability Index

The Antigua and Barbuda
delegation that recently visited Japan
made the case for developed countries
and international donor organizations to
use the Vulnerability Index as an
indicator to qualify countries for aid
packages.

Tourism and Civil Aviation
Minister Harold Lovell during a Luncheon
Meeting with the President of the
Overseas Fishery Cooperation
Foundation (OFCF) Mr. Shimada, said
that Antigua and Barbuda does not
qualify for numerous aid packages


because current World Bank indicators
put the country in a middle-income
bracket due to a relatively high per
capital income which is at US$12, 000.

"We feel that this is a
misleading index and that another
basis of calculation should be used in
the determination of the level of
assistance given to us by international
donors. We support the development
and use of a vulnerability index,"
Minister Lovell said.

The development of the
Vulnerability Index was spearheaded
by the Small Island Developing States
SIDS and after extensive analytical
work and discussions at several high-
level meetings in 1999, the
Commonwealth Secretariat produced
a Commonwealth Vulnerability Index
which is used as a policy instrument in
determining assistance requirements.

Minister Lovell pointed out
that the index indicates that
irrespective of income levels, small
states are generally more vulnerable
than other developing countries. He
noted that the index takes into
consideration issues that are of
particular concern to small states and
over which they have no control, such
as their vulnerability to external
economic and environmental shocks,
the transitional costs of integration into
the rapidly globalizing economy, the
changing international trading system,
susceptibility to environmental change
and natural disasters, and security
concerns.

The Tourism and Civil
Aviation Minister told the Japanese
executives that in assessing Antigua
and Barbuda's eligibility for economic
assistance, his government
encourages Japan and other
developed countries to consider the
use of the Vulnerability Index.


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


ZLtugau urua cu.ruvTuuw waeuegtLrn uracussw wun wLnrjupyru? e
Association of Travel Agents


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com












International College Fair 2006 Antigua
November, 7th- 8th

The Ministry of Education will be staging an International Fair on the 7th and 8th November 2006 at the Multi-Purpose
Exhibition Centre, Perry Bay, St. John's Antigua.

The Fair will be opened from 10:00am to 5:30pm each day.

The objectives of the fair are to:

help prospective students and their parents make informed decisions about further education;

provide interested students/parents/guardians with an opportunity to discover the diversity of higher education in
the Caribbean, United Sates, United Kingdom, and Canada;

minimise the time and money spent in application to tertiary institutions;

give Caribbean and International Institutions a unique opportunity to diversify their student's population by re
cruiting a high calibre of student from Antigua and Barbuda.

The registration fee of US$300.00 provides each institution with a table 6x2.6ft and two chairs. The fee also includes
lunch, coffee breaks and transportation to and from the centre on both days. Information, exhibits and other materials necessary to
stimulate interest in your College/University, can be sent in advance by courier service to Mrs. Maureen Lewis, College Fair
Coordinator, Ministry of Education, St. John's Antigua.

Telephone: 1(268) 462-4959
Fax: 1-(268) 462-4970
E-mail: lenorelew@hotmail.com

We will ensure safekeeping and delivery of your package to the Exhibition Centre.

A short profile (130 words maximum) of your institution will be included in the ICF Programme, and should be sent by
e-mail no later than 30th September 2006, to maintain uniformity, only the following information will be printed: short profile,
telephone and fax numbers, mailing, e-mail and website addresses, academic programme, tuition and living costs, enrollment
(undergraduate/graduate/international student). We are making contact with hotels for special rates an will inform you later
concerning costs.

Should your College/University decide to participate, please complete the attached registration form and return along with
the registration fee by 30th August, 2006. Bank draft in US dollars or Cheque Drawn on a US Bank should be made payable to
International College Fair and addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, P.O. Box 1264, St. John's, Antigua,
West Indies.


The Ministry of Education Looks Forward to your participation.


Maureen Lewis
Coordinator- International College Fair





2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


www.antigua-barbuda.com


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486











Ministry of Education
International College Fair 2006
Registration Form

Date: Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th November 2006

Early registration: US$ 300.00 Deadline August 30th, 2006
Late registration: US$ 450.00 Deadline October 11th, 2006

Please Complete in Block Letters

Name of College/University:



Mailing Address:





Name of Representative:

Position: Office:

Telephone: Fax:

E-mail: Website:


Please register and reserved a booth for my institution at the Antigua International College Fair 2006. The fair will be held from 10:00am
- 12:30pm and from 2:00pm 5:00pm on Tuesday 7th November 2006, and from 9:00am 12:00pm and 1:30pm 5:30pm on Wednes-
day 8th November 2006, at the Multi-Purpose Exhibition Centre, St. John's Antigua.

I understand that the registration fee is non-refundable and due to limited space, booths cannot be guaranteed for institutions that have
not paid by 11th October, 2006.

Enclosed is a cheque for US $ 300.00 Paid as early registration fee for my participation at the Antigua International College Fair.u

Enclosed is a cheque for US $ 450.00 Paid as late registration fee for my participation at the Antigua International College Fair. O


Name: Office:

Signature: Date:

Please make cheque payable to International College Fair.
(Bank draft/cheque drawn on a U.S Bank)

Mrs. Maureen L. Lewis
Coordinator International College Fair
Tele: (268)-462-4959
Fax: (268)-462-4970
E-mail: lenorelew@hotmail.com



2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP
Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486 10 www.antigua-barbuda.com








I II,~~R~


Japan External Trade
Organisation (JETRO)
encourages Antiguan
exports to Japan

Chairman of the Japan External
Trade Organisation, Osamu Watanabe,
has encouraged Antiguan and Barbudan
businesses to export their products into
the Japanese market.

During a meeting between the
Antiguan and Barbuda delegation led by
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer visiting
Japan and officials of the trade
organisation, Antigua and Barbuda was
encouraged to promote the popular
Susie's Hot Sauce and the English
Harbour Rum in Japan.

"These two products are very
popular on the international market and I
will encourage Antigua and Barbuda to
promote these popular brands in Japan.
Every year there is a food exhibition in
the spring in Japan and we encourage
you to participate. JETRO will provide
subsidies for developing countries to
participate," outlined JETRO's CEO
Osamu Watanabe.

As part of their remit, JETRO
identifies promising export products in
developing countries and provides
technical assistance on how to improve
their quality and design. At the request
of individual countries, JETRO holds
several exhibitions each year to enable
foreign exporters to visit Japan and
introduce their products directly to
Japanese buyers and consumers.

Prime Minister Spencer said
that the suggestions and assistance that
JETRO is prepared to lend towards
facilitating Susie's Hot Sauce and
English Harbour Rum to enter the
Japanese market are very timely and is
an opportunity that should be utilized to
the fullest. Susie's hot Sauce and


Prime Minister Baldwin Spencerpresented'A. LittCe Bit of Parads' to
JETRO's CEO Osamu 'Watanabe


English Harbour Rum have won
numerous awards worldwide, with
English Harbour Rum recently being
named one of the world's best ten rums
by Forbes Magazine.

During the meeting Prime
Minister Spencer also updated the
JETRO executives on the progress of the
CARICOM Single Market and noted that
Japan should expand its cooperation in
the Caribbean beyond shipping and one
such way is supporting the establishment
of the Regional Development Fund.

"The Regional Development
Fund is an important aspect of the
CARICOM Single Market which will
facilitate developing countries within the
regional grouping to find their niche and
we are anticipating that the Japanese
government will assist us in the
establishment of this fund," said Prime
Minister Spencer.


The JETRO CEO said that
the establishment of the CARICOM
Single Market is a very positive move
for the region and such cooperation
can only lend to regional attractiveness.

The Japan External Trade
Organisation JETRO also helps
developing countries achieve
sustainable economic growth by
working with them to strengthen their
export industries, improve business-
related systems and nurture human
resources.

In line with Japan's Official
Development Assistance (ODA)
Charter, JETRO takes into account the
diversity that exists among developing
economies and tailors its assistance
accordingly.




c


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com








Issu No.10 Ma2


Response to
Readership Survey

During December 2005 and
January 2006 the High Commission
sought to obtain feedback from you
regarding the Antigua and Barbuda High


Commission's Newsletter through a
Readership Survey.

From 583 persons to whom this
was sent there were 35 respondents. 27
respondents were generally satisfied
with the information provided and when
asked for recommendations for


improving the Newsletter gave
remarkable responses, most of which
can and will be implemented.

The High Commission would
like to thank those who participated in
this survey. Your responses were
indeed appreciated.


Minister signs deal on
merchant shipping with
Cyprus

Senator Aziz Hadeed, Minister
of State with responsibility for Merchant
Shipping and Shipping Registration,
recently revealed that his government
has signed an agreement on merchant
shipping with Government of the
Republic of Cyprus, aimed at promoting
cooperation between the two countries
in the field of maritime transport.

"Given the importance my
government attaches to the
development of our shipping registry on
the international plane, we felt it was
rather important to establish such a link
with the Republic of Cyprus," whose
shipping registry has shown
phenomenal growth in recent years,"
said Senator Hadeed.

"In 1981 Cyprus was ranked
thirty-second on the list of leading
maritime nations. It now ranks sixth with
a merchant fleet exceeding 26 million
gross tons, and is considered an
international maritime centre. This is a
model we intend to emulate," he added.
The Senator also noted that other such
agreements with some of the major
maritime nations are in the works.

"As we establish partnerships
with other nations, my government
intends to ensure that our Merchant
Shipping and Shipping Registration Unit


Senator Aziz H3adeed with foreign Ministers from the European
Union during a recent meeting in Austria


becomes internationally recognized as a
responsible entity for the development
of maritime activities, including:
registration of ships, administration of
the Merchant Shipping Laws, control of
shipping and enforcement of
international conventions, investigation
of casualties, resolving labour disputes
onboard Antigua and Barbuda-flagged
ships and training and certification of
seafarers," he said.

The Senator praised the
Antigua and Barbuda's Mission to the
United Nations for its assistance in
facilitating the signing of today's
agreement at the Republic of Cyprus'
Mission to the United Nations.

The agreement which entered
into force immediately, called for, among


other things, parallel registration of ships
in the respective registry of the two
countries, the adoption of appropriate
measures to reduce unnecessary
delays of vessels in the ports of each
country, the reciprocal recognition of the
identity documents issued by the
competent authorities to enable crew
members from each country to embark
from their respective vessels for
temporary shore leave, and the
simplification of administrative, customs
and sanitary formalities applicable to
their respective ports.


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com


- - - - - - - - - -

PAGE 1

2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Street, London W1H 4LP http://www.antigua-barbuda.com ISSUE No.110 May 2006 Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486 On Thursday 1st June, Prime Minister the Honourable Baldwin Spencer and the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi, were engaged in lengthy discussions on wide ranging issues of concern to both nations. Prime Minister Koizumi, who indicated that he was made aware that Antigua and Barbuda’s main industry is tourism, advised Antigua and Barbuda to immediately commence marketing the country in Japan and suggested that sustained marketing will result in increased number of travellers knowing about the Caribbean island and wanting to visit. He pointed out that every year over 16 million Japanese travel abroad and Antigua and Barbuda should market itself in Japan to capture a share of that huge travelling market. Prime Minister Spencer updated the Japanese Prime Minister on the country’s marketing strategy along with its position on a number of issues ranging from United Nations reform to the sustainable management of the world’s resources. Both leaders also spent a great deal of time discussing sports, tourism, natural disaster management and fisheries. The Japanese leader pledged his country’s continued cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda in its developmental efforts. Both countries have signalled their intention to sign a technical cooperation agreement after approval from the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs. Inside • Finance Ministry heightens awareness on the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) • Government to remain seized with Internet gaming Dispute with the United States (pages 4 to 5) • Antigua and Barbuda delegation in Japan holds successful meetings (pages 7 to 8) • Deal on merchant shipping signed with Cyprus (page 12)

PAGE 2

A MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY DR CARL ROBERTS, HIGH COMMISSIONER Dear Readers, On the 6th June 2006, the High Commission was represented at a Panel discussion, sponsored by the Royal Commonwealth Society, entitled ‘Doves and Dragons Is China a threat or opportunity to the Commonwealth’? This was a very important topic for us since China has been very helpful to many countries in the Caribbean including Antigua and Barbuda, hence our attendance. The panellists were Mr Duncan InnisKerr, Editor of the China Report, The Economist/Economist Intelligence Unit and Mr Jonathan Galea, Political Officer, Asia/Pacific; Commonwealth Secretariat Political Affairs Division. Mr Galea was speaking on his own behalf and not for the Secretariat. Both presentations were excellent even though there was not much of a debate as both speakers seemed to be in general agreement that China’s impact on the Commonwealth was positive. China, being the 4th largest economy in world is definitely in a position to, and often does, assist developing countries with infrastructure projects. For instance, in Antigua and Barbuda, the Chinese are building our state-of-the-art Sir Vivian Richards Stadium to enable us to properly play our part in hosting the Cricket World Cup in 2007. From all accounts this work is proceeding very well, thanks to the Chinese workforce which is dedicated, disciplined and hard-working. This is only one of a long line of projects involving China’s assistance. During a visit to China in November 2004 Prime Minister Spencer, in a meeting with Vice President Zeng Qinghong said that, ‘over the 21 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and China, the bilateral political relations have been strengthened constantly and economic and trade cooperation has made great achievements. The Antigua and Barbuda government will continue to follow the one-China policy, [and] highly compliments China's contributions to maintaining world peace and security and [the government] stands ready to work with China to push forward and enhance the economic and trade cooperation between the Caribbean countries and China.’ Our country’s views have not changed. China is the largest developing country in the world, and we have much to gain by working closely with our ‘big brother’ and trust that that perception is mutual. Dr Carl Roberts High Commissioner

PAGE 3

3 Antigua and Barbuda reacts to Indictments of Gaming Operators On the 18th May, Antiguan government officials reacted to news that the United States Department of Justice had released indictments of two Antiguan residents on money laundering charges related to their operation of an Antiguan based and licensed gaming service provider. The charges, contained in an indictment dated 7 April 2005, accuse William Scott and Jessica Davis of violating United States anti-money laundering laws through their operation of World Wide Telesports, or WWTS. Ironically, the allegations hinge on purported violations by the two of United States legislation known as the “Wire Act” and the “Travel Act,” the application of both of which to gaming operators from Antigua was found last year by the World Trade Organisation to be contrary to the American obligations under WTO law. Antigua’s Ambassador to the WTO, Dr. John W. Ashe, does not see the indictments and Antigua’s WTO victory to be unrelated. “These indictments, coming down at a time when the United States is supposed to be undertaking efforts to comply with the rulings of the WTO, are surely no coincidence. It is more than just a little ironic that the United States Department of Justice has chosen to single out for prosecution a well-known gaming service provider from Antigua, a jurisdiction that has been leading global efforts to license, regulate, supervise and oversee a robust yet clean and safe gaming industry over the Internet-and the only jurisdiction to take on the United States at the World Trade Organisationand win-on this exact issue.” Under WTO procedures, the United States had until 3 April 2006 to comply with the rulings of the WTO in the gambling case. Having initially stated that coming into compliance would involve significant legislative efforts, the United States made a surprise announcement at the WTO meeting last month that it was already in compliance with the adverse ruling, despite having taken no apparent corrective action at all. The parties are in the early stages of a process at the WTO whereby a panel will review the current situation and assess the status of United States compliance. “We are looking forward to this review process,” said Dr. Ashe, “and we feel very confident that once again the WTO will agree with us that the United States’ position on Internet gaming from our country is simply trade discriminationdisguised restrictions on trade in services in violation of the WTO agreements. In the year since we won our case, facts have only gotten better for Antigua and worse for the United States.” The indictments do not allege that Mr. Scott and Ms. Davis engaged in any money laundering conduct other than by virtue of conducting the ordinary business of a licensed Antiguan gaming company, conduct that not only is lawful in Antigua, but much of which is clearly lawful in the United States as well. The Antiguan Solicitor General and Chairman of Antigua’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission, Mr. Lebrecht Hesse, announced that the Antiguan government would be contacting the United States directly to lodge a protest over the latest action of the Department of Justice. “Coming at a time when Antigua and the United States are expected to be working together on a reasonable solution to our dispute, these indictments announced by the Americans yesterday-which I note have been laying unsealed, in secret, since they were returned over a year ago-are pretty incredible. We trust that these indictments do not represent the official position of the United States government and rather represent the work of some over-zealous prosecutor. We look forward to the US administration’s prompt clarification of this most unfortunate incident.” Turning to the subjects of the indictments, Mr. Hesse observed as Chairman of the FSRC “both of these individuals have been through the extensive due diligence process we subject all major participants in our gaming industry to, and both have been found fit and proper to conduct this kind of regulated business in Antigua. To our knowledge, Mr. Scott and Ms. Davis-Dyett have been lawabiding citizens since coming to this country some years ago.” Finance Ministry heightens awareness on the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) The Inland Revenue Department is proceeding with a registration drive in preparation for the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) According to Co-ordinator of the ABST Implementation Team Mr. Everton Gonsalves, efforts are being made to ensure that all stakeholders are properly sensitized on the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax. To this end, prospective registrants can expect to receive registration materials and invitations to attend registration and training seminars which commenced on May 23 rd . The Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax Act provides for the 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 4

4 imposition, collection, and administration of a broad-based tax on consumption in Antigua and Barbuda, which will replace a number of existing, less-efficient taxes. The tax is modelled on the “value added” type consumption taxes in use in over 120 countries around the world, including many of the other countries in the Caribbean region. ABST is a single rate, broadbased, multi-stage transaction tax, imposed and collected at each stage in the chain of production and distribution. The tax will be collected by businesses, but the final tax burden is intended to fall on domestic consumers. The broad base of the tax will limit the distortions produced by the current taxation regime and provide for simpler compliance and administration than the existing raft of taxes being replaced. Mr. Gonsalves added that the ABST is likely to replace a number of existing taxes including the Consumption Tax, the Hotels Tax, the Hotel Guest Levy, Restaurant and Catering Services Tax and the Telecommunications Tax. A standard rate of 15 per cent is been considered for the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax however, a special introductory rate will be offered to hotels. The ABST is likely to take effect in the third quarter of 2006. Ministry of Tourism launches Team 2K7 for Milestone Celebration Year 2007 The Ministry of Tourism has announced the establishment of a national steering committee to oversee the country’s entertainment activities for 2007 which will be a monumental year of celebration for Antigua and Barbuda.   Tourism Minister Harold Lovell, who heads the committee, officially launched “Team 2K7” in a media event on Thursday 25 th May, when the details of the committee’s plans for 2006 and 2007 was outlined. “Work has begun in earnest but I am elated at the progress we have made to date. I am more confident now than ever that Antigua and Barbuda will put on a magnificent, high quality showcase of our culture and natural environment, so that visitors and residents alike will have an unforgettably enjoyable experience during the various milestone activities to be celebrated during 2007,” the Minister noted. These events include ICC CWC 2007, the 20 th anniversary of the Classic Yacht Regatta, the 40 th anniversary of Sailing Week and the 50 th anniversary of Carnival. Team 2K7’s kick off activity will be an after cricket lime dubbed “A Taste of 2007” in downtown St. John’s on Sunday June 4 th , followed by a public Input Session on June 22 during which members of the public will be encouraged to share their ideas and volunteer for the various sub-committees. The National Theme Contest to identify the phrase which best captures the spirit of the nation during the 2007 milestone year of celebration has been extended. All residents of Antigua and Barbuda are eligible, and entries should be 10 words or less, and should be contained to one theme per person. Entrants grant the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation the right to use and publish the submission in print, online or in any other media in connection with the theme and or activities, without compensation.   Submissions should be accompanied by a summary in not more than 25 – 50 words of your interpretation of the submitted theme. The deadline for submissions has been extended to Monday 26 June, 2006, and should be addressed to the Manager of education awareness and training Mrs. Cynthia Simon. “2007 will present a perfect opportunity for our store operators, promoters, entertainers, vendors, entrepreneurs and volunteers to show the world what we in Antigua and Barbuda can produce deliver. We need everyone to come on board and help make this a resounding success,” said Minister Lovell. Government to remain seized with Internet gaming dispute with the United States On 25th May, Minister of Finance and the Economy, Dr. L Errol Cort, reassured the nation that his government remains seized with the matter of the WTO dispute on Internet gaming between the Antigua and Barbuda and the United States. “The United States and us have just agreed on and jointly submitted to the WTO’s Dispute Settlement Body (DSB), a set of procedures known as a “Sequencing Agreement,” with the US regarding the timeframe for the establishment of a compliance panel by the DSB to determine if the United States has implemented the recommendations and rulings of the DSB and if it remains out of compliance with its WTO obligations,” said the Minister. The Minister went on to add that if the DSB finds that the United States failed to comply with that body’s recommendations and rulings, or that a measure taken by the United States to 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 5

5 comply with the recommendations and rulings is inconsistent with a covered agreement, his government reserved the right to request authorization to suspend concessions or other obligations under the relevant WTO provisions. The Minister also expressed his government’s concern with pending legislation before the House Judiciary Committee of the US Congress. He stated, “I have requested our Ambassador to the WTO, Ambassador John Ashe, to write to Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Mr. James Sensenbrenner, and inform him of my government’s concern with legislation introduced into the United States Congress on 16 February 2006 entitled the “Internet Gambling Prohibition Act” (the “Goodlatte Bill”), and similar legislation , introduced on 18 November 2005 as H.R. 4411, cited as the “Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2005” (the “Leach Bill”),” he said. “We are concerned that these Bills may be expressly contrary to the rulings and recommendations of the DSB,” he added. Ms. Kaye McDonald, Director of Gaming, Financial Services Regulatory Commission also expressed concern with the Bills. “We note, on the one hand, that the Goodlatte Bill, which is cast as an amendment to the US federal criminal statute known as the “Wire Act,” is designed to expand the coverage of the Wire Act to most types of gambling services offered over the Internet, and on the other hand, the Leach Bill seeks to criminalise facilitation of or participation in certain financial transactions associated with what the legislation defines as “unlawful Internet gambling,” she said.   Mark Mendel, the legal adviser to the government on this matter added that a settlement was proposed to the then United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Robert Zoellick, almost two years ago now, after the WTO panel report was first released to both parties. “An approached was made to Amb Zoellick with a view towards reaching an accommodation between both parties prior to the release of the panel report, that would in essence, use the Antigua-based industry as a “test case” of sorts, since we believed that a thoughtful study of the gaming industry in cooperation with US would demonstrate the efficacy of Antigua and Barbuda’s regulatory scheme and the ability of the government to adequately supervise this kind of activity,” he said. “In my communication to the Chairman Sensenbrenner, I informed him that Minister Cort remains available to meet with the members of the Judiciary Committee to discuss the pending legislation and their impact on the WTO dispute,” said Ambassador Ashe. Statement by H.E. Edwin W. Carrington, SecretaryGeneral, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on the occasion of the Inaugural CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month, June 2006 “We, the peoples of the Caribbean, both in the Homeland and in the Diaspora, will without doubt always remember the sixth month of the sixth year of the 21st century. It is both an historic and a momentous occasion, as on 5 June 2006 the President of the United States of America, George W. Bush, officially proclaimed June 2006 Caribbean-American Heritage Month. For centuries, the United States of America has benefited from the contributions of the sons and daughters of the Caribbean. As stated by the President, “We celebrate the great contributions of the CaribbeanAmerican, to the fabric of our nation and we pay tribute to the common culture and bonds of friendship that unite the United States and Caribbean Countries. Our nation has thrived as a country of immigrants and we are more vibrant and hopeful because of the talent, faith and values of CaribbeanAmericans. For centuries CaribbeanAmericans have enriched our society and added to the strength of America.” The President pointed to Caribbean-Americans being “leaders in Government, sports, entertainment, the arts and many other fields.” Congresswoman Barbara Lee (DOakland), lead sponsor of the Bill which was passed in the Congress in February of this year, and to whom our profound gratitude goes, cites a long list of Caribbean people and their descendants in this regard, including: “Alexander Hamilton, Hazel Scott, Sidney Poiter, Jean Michelle Basquit, Eric Holder, Colin Powell, Susan Taylor, Edwidge Danticat, Kelsey Grammer, Jean Baptiste Point Du Sable, Roberto Clemente, Maryse Condè, Cecily Tyson, Harry Belafonte, Celia Cruz, Mervyn Dymally and Shirley Chisholm.” Congresswoman Lee and her co-sponsors truly deserve our gratitude for providing the voice that strongly called for the recognition of the people of the Caribbean Diaspora. In marking this historic step in the strengthening of ties between the Caribbean and the United States, it would be remiss not to pay tribute to the Institute of Caribbean Studies for the very important role it played in lobbying for the recognition of this month as Caribbean-American 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 6

6 Heritage Month. Since 1999, the Institute has been observing June as CaribbeanAmerican Heritage month. In addition, its efforts to make the celebrations nationwide this year must be highly commended. This is therefore, definitely a time for celebration for the people of the Caribbean, be they in the Homeland or in the Diaspora. In so doing however, let us not forget that there are even more valuable benefits to be gained from such an observance. And, while we greatly value and give due praise to the sterling contributions Caribbean-Americans have made to the United States in a wide variety of fields, we must always remember the intrinsic bonds that forever bind the Diaspora to the Caribbean region. During the lecture series to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of the Caribbean Community in 2003, the former Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Most Honourable P.J Patterson used the occasion to speak directly to the Caribbean Diaspora. He was of the firm view that persons of Caribbean descent needed to come together to advance concerns of common interest to all CARICOM countries, concerns relating to trade and investment issues, developments in US immigration policy, security matters, the narcotics trafficking, gun-smuggling and criminal deportees. The Caribbean Diaspora, he emphasised, needed to continue as an essential partner in Caribbean civilisation. All needed to be involved! It is in this spirit that it behoves us all to keep working to strengthen the ties that already exist between the peoples of the Caribbean and of the United States, as we launch this inaugural CaribbeanAmerican Heritage Month.” Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking to be observed Students in learning institutions in Antigua and Barbuda will play a very important part in this year’s observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which will be observed on 26 th June 2006. Norma Dorsett, Substance Abuse Prevention Officer from the Substance Abuse Prevention Division, said her department (a division of the Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation) has organized an essay competition for students from primary to tertiary levels under the theme, “The Role I Can Play in the Fight Against Drug Use/Abuse in Antigua & Barbuda.” Dorsett said judges will review the various entries, make an assessment and determine the best essay for each of the four categories from primary, junior secondary, secondary and tertiary institutions. Participants in the competition will not be ‘labouring in vain’ as there are great prizes up for grabs including a laptop and desktop computer, digital camera, ipod and Mp3 players. Meantime, Dorsett said plans are coming together for the staging of a march in recognition of International Day Against Drug Abuse, which will be held under the theme, “Partners Against Drug – Join the Fight.” “We are hoping to send a strong message to the community that we are against illicit drugs and will do whatever we can to reduce and even stop the use of the substances that are causing great problems on our community”, Dorsett said. BAIG’s commitment to tackle the diseases of the developing world A year ago, the Biomedical Industry Advisory Group (BIAG) offered its submission to the World Health Organisation Commission on Intellectual Property Rights Innovation and Public Health (CIPIH). The submission was selected from the expertise and insights of thousands of their colleagues across the globe in the biomedical industry. The BIAG’s intent then and now is to foster a global dialogue on how best to ease the burden of diseases that disproportionately affect the developing world, and examine ways to spur the discovery, development and delivery of innovative therapeutics to improve public health worldwide. The Biomedical Industry stands ready to strengthen its already substantial investments in innovative treatments, training and other solutions that save and improve lives around the world. The BIAG has renewed its commitment to improving the quality of public health in the developing world. (BIAG Secretariat) (http://biag.org). 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 7

The following poem was submitted by a young member of the Antiguan Diaspora, we hope you enjoy it as much we do. There it lies, a speck in the Caribbean Sea 365 beaches, swaying palms, Awesome Antigua, Awesome Antigua. Jolly, Jumby and Grand, Special Safaris and sailing seas. Tiny towns and tall townsmen, Big broad, banks, They don’t use Francs, Have a nice swim Or go to a Gym, Try Antigua, You’ll love it!!! By: Adam C. Samuel Age: 12 Dagenham, Essex Antigua and Barbuda delegation in Japan holds successful meetings Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and Tourism Minister Harold Lovell described the first day of official meetings in Japan with government officials as being very successful. The delegation which also comprises Ambassador to Japan and the International Whaling Commission Anthony Liverpool, held meetings with the Japanese Association of Travel Agents, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Yasushi Kaneko, the Whaling Caucus of the Liberal Democratic Party and Foreign Affairs Minister Taro Aso. Tourism Minister Harold Lovell said that the meeting with the Japanese Association of Travel Agents was an eye opener as the Antigua and Barbuda delegation was encouraged to tap into the lucrative Japanese tourist market. He noted that in addition to the country being invited to participate in the World Tourism Fair to be held in Japan in September of this year, an offer was made to provide assistance to Antigua and Barbuda to develop a Japanese Tourism website to expose Japanese travellers to Antigua and Barbuda. “Japan is an untapped market, but a market with tremendous potential. The JATA representative is of the view that the Caribbean area is ripe for development in terms of Japanese tourists. We discuss the real possibility of promoting multi-destination marketing whereby its not only Antigua and Barbuda but the entire OECS. JATA will be prepared to work with US to reap economic benefits from having a presence in Japan to facilitate marketing the region here,” Minister Lovell said The issue of direct flights between Antigua and Barbuda was addressed and it was suggested that connections from the USA to Antigua and Barbuda for Japanese tourists can be utilized. Minister Lovell mentioned with the direct flights to Antigua from Atlanta by Delta Airlines and the American Airlines flight from US ports into Antigua via Puerto Rico. It was also recommended that Antigua and Barbuda collaborate with other OECS countries to jointly market the Caribbean in Japan. The JATA official recommended that Antigua and Barbuda should establish a system in Japan for daily contact between the Japanese Travel Agents Association and Antigua and Barbuda. This, Minister Lovell said will be further explored by Ambassador Anthony Liverpool. Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer said that the meeting highlighted the potential for the 7 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 8

8 development of the travel business between Japan and Antigua and Barbuda. He said that his government is looking forward to putting the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda taps into the Japanese travel market. Commenting on his meetings with the Foreign Minister of Japan and other members of parliament, Prime Minister Spencer said that they were very productive resulting in the Japanese government pledging further technical cooperation. On the issue of whaling he said that Antigua and Barbuda shares the same position with Japan for scientific monitoring and the sustainable use of whales. This position he said will be articulated by Antigua and Barbuda at the upcoming International Whaling Commission meeting in St. Kitts in June. “We discussed a wide range of issues including United Nations reform and Japan’s technical cooperation programme with Antigua and Barbuda. We outlined that the government is fully supportive of sustainable use of the world’s resources and in that concept we support Japan’s position on whaling. I am of the view that our meetings so far have firmed up our relations and it will result in the relationship deepening,” said the Prime Minister. Both Prime Minister Spencer and Minister Lovell underscored the need for a greater bond with Japan that will extend beyond cooperation in fisheries. The Antigua and Barbuda delegation also visited the largest fish market in the world. Antigua and Barbuda makes case for Vulnerability Index The Antigua and Barbuda delegation that recently visited Japan made the case for developed countries and international donor organizations to use the Vulnerability Index as an indicator to qualify countries for aid packages. Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Harold Lovell during a Luncheon Meeting with the President of the Overseas Fishery Cooperation Foundation (OFCF) Mr. Shimada, said that Antigua and Barbuda does not qualify for numerous aid packages because current World Bank indicators put the country in a middle-income bracket due to a relatively high per capita income which is at US$12, 000. “We feel that this is a misleading index and that another basis of calculation should be used in the determination of the level of assistance given to us by international donors. We support the development and use of a vulnerability index,” Minister Lovell said . The development of the Vulnerability Index was spearheaded by the Small Island Developing States SIDS and after extensive analytical work and discussions at several highlevel meetings in 1999, the Commonwealth Secretariat produced a Commonwealth Vulnerability Index which is used as a policy instrument in determining assistance requirements. Minister Lovell pointed out that the index indicates that irrespective of income levels, small states are generally more vulnerable than other developing countries. He noted that the index takes into consideration issues that are of particular concern to small states and over which they have no control, such as their vulnerability to external economic and environmental shocks, the transitional costs of integration into the rapidly globalizing economy, the changing international trading system, susceptibility to environmental change and natural disasters, and security concerns. The Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister told the Japanese executives that in assessing Antigua and Barbuda’s eligibility for economic assistance, his government encourages Japan and other developed countries to consider the use of the Vulnerability Index. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 9

9 International College Fair 2006 – Antigua November, 7 th – 8 th The Ministry of Education will be staging an International Fair on the 7 th and 8 th November 2006 at the Multi-Purpose Exhibition Centre, Perry Bay, St. John’s Antigua. The Fair will be opened from 10:00am to 5:30pm each day. The objectives of the fair are to: • help prospective students and their parents make informed decisions about further education; • provide interested students/parents/guardians with an opportunity to discover the diversity of higher education in the Caribbean, United Sates, United Kingdom, and Canada; • minimise the time and money spent in application to tertiary institutions; • give Caribbean and International Institutions a unique opportunity to diversify their student’s population by re cruiting a high calibre of student from Antigua and Barbuda. The registration fee of US$300.00 provides each institution with a table 6x2.6ft and two chairs. The fee also includes lunch, coffee breaks and transportation to and from the centre on both days. Information, exhibits and other materials necessary to stimulate interest in your College/University, can be sent in advance by courier service to Mrs. Maureen Lewis, College Fair Coordinator, Ministry of Education, St. John’s Antigua. Telephone: 1(268) 462-4959 Fax: 1-(268) 462-4970 E-mail: lenorelew@hotmail.com We will ensure safekeeping and delivery of your package to the Exhibition Centre. A short profile (130 words maximum) of your institution will be included in the ICF Programme, and should be sent by e-mail no later than 30 th September 2006, to maintain uniformity, only the following information will be printed: short profile, telephone and fax numbers, mailing, e-mail and website addresses, academic programme, tuition and living costs, enrollment (undergraduate/graduate/international student). We are making contact with hotels for special rates an will inform you later concerning costs. Should your College/University decide to participate, please complete the attached registration form and return along with the registration fee by 30 th August, 2006. Bank draft in US dollars or Cheque Drawn on a US Bank should be made payable to International College Fair and addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, P.O. Box 1264, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies. The Ministry of Education Looks Forward to your participation. Maureen Lewis Coordinator – International College Fair 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 10

10 Ministry of Education International College Fair 2006 Registration Form Date: Tuesday 7 th and Wednesday 8 th November 2006 Early registration: US$ 300.00 – Deadline – August 30 th , 2006 Late registration: US$ 450.00 – Deadline – October 11 th , 2006 Please Complete in Block Letters Name of College/University: Mailing Address: Name of Representative: Position: Office: Telephone: Fax: E-mail: Website: Please register and reserved a booth for my institution at the Antigua International College Fair 2006. The fair will be held from 10:00am – 12:30pm and from 2:00pm – 5:00pm on Tuesday 7 th November 2006, and from 9:00am – 12:00pm and 1:30pm – 5:30pm on Wednesday 8 th November 2006, at the Multi-Purpose Exhibition Centre, St. John’s Antigua. I understand that the registration fee is non-refundable and due to limited space, booths cannot be guaranteed for institutions that have not paid by 11 th October, 2006. Enclosed is a cheque for US $ 450.00 Paid as late registration fee for my participation at the Antigua International College Fair. O Name: Office: Signature: Date: Please make cheque payable to International College Fair. (Bank draft/cheque drawn on a U.S Bank) Mrs. Maureen L. Lewis Coordinator International College Fair Tele: (268)-462-4959 Fax: (268)-462-4970 E-mail: lenorelew@hotmail.com 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 11

11 Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) encourages Antiguan exports to Japan Chairman of the Japan External Trade Organisation, Osamu Watanabe, has encouraged Antiguan and Barbudan businesses to export their products into the Japanese market. During a meeting between the Antiguan and Barbuda delegation led by Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer visiting Japan and officials of the trade organisation, Antigua and Barbuda was encouraged to promote the popular Susie’s Hot Sauce and the English Harbour Rum in Japan. “These two products are very popular on the international market and I will encourage Antigua and Barbuda to promote these popular brands in Japan. Every year there is a food exhibition in the spring in Japan and we encourage you to participate. JETRO will provide subsidies for developing countries to participate,” outlined JETRO’s CEO Osamu Watanabe. As part of their remit, JETRO identifies promising export products in developing countries and provides technical assistance on how to improve their quality and design. At the request of individual countries, JETRO holds several exhibitions each year to enable foreign exporters to visit Japan and introduce their products directly to Japanese buyers and consumers. Prime Minister Spencer said that the suggestions and assistance that JETRO is prepared to lend towards facilitating Susie’s Hot Sauce and English Harbour Rum to enter the Japanese market are very timely and is an opportunity that should be utilized to the fullest. Susie’s hot Sauce and English Harbour Rum have won numerous awards worldwide, with English Harbour Rum recently being named one of the world’s best ten rums by Forbes Magazine. During the meeting Prime Minister Spencer also updated the JETRO executives on the progress of the CARICOM Single Market and noted that Japan should expand its cooperation in the Caribbean beyond shipping and one such way is supporting the establishment of the Regional Development Fund. “The Regional Development Fund is an important aspect of the CARICOM Single Market which will facilitate developing countries within the regional grouping to find their niche and we are anticipating that the Japanese government will assist us in the establishment of this fund,” said Prime Minister Spencer. The JETRO CEO said that the establishment of the CARICOM Single Market is a very positive move for the region and such cooperation can only lend to regional attractiveness. The Japan External Trade Organisation JETRO also helps developing countries achieve sustainable economic growth by working with them to strengthen their export industries, improve businessrelated systems and nurture human resources. In line with Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) Charter, JETRO takes into account the diversity that exists among developing economies and tailors its assistance accordingly. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006

PAGE 12

12 Response to Readership Survey During December 2005 and January 2006 the High Commission sought to obtain feedback from you regarding the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission’s Newsletter through a Readership Survey. From 583 persons to whom this was sent there were 35 respondents. 27 respondents were generally satisfied with the information provided and when asked for recommendations for improving the Newsletter gave remarkable responses, most of which can and will be implemented. The High Commission would like to thank those who participated in this survey. Your responses were indeed appreciated. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 110 May 2006 Minister signs deal on merchant shipping with Cyprus Senator Aziz Hadeed, Minister of State with responsibility for Merchant Shipping and Shipping Registration, recently revealed that his government has signed an agreement on merchant shipping with Government of the Republic of Cyprus, aimed at promoting cooperation between the two countries in the field of maritime transport. “Given the importance my government attaches to the development of our shipping registry on the international plane, we felt it was rather important to establish such a link with the Republic of Cyprus,” whose shipping registry has shown phenomenal growth in recent years,” said Senator Hadeed. “In 1981 Cyprus was ranked thirty-second on the list of leading maritime nations. It now ranks sixth with a merchant fleet exceeding 26 million gross tons, and is considered an international maritime centre. This is a model we intend to emulate,” he added. The Senator also noted that other such agreements with some of the major maritime nations are in the works. “As we establish partnerships with other nations, my government intends to ensure that our Merchant Shipping and Shipping Registration Unit becomes internationally recognized as a responsible entity for the development of maritime activities, including: registration of ships, administration of the Merchant Shipping Laws, control of shipping and enforcement of international conventions, investigation of casualties, resolving labour disputes onboard Antigua and Barbuda-flagged ships and training and certification of seafarers,” he said. The Senator praised the Antigua and Barbuda’s Mission to the United Nations for its assistance in facilitating the signing of today’s agreement at the Republic of Cyprus’ Mission to the United Nations. The agreement which entered into force immediately, called for, among other things, parallel registration of ships in the respective registry of the two countries, the adoption of appropriate measures to reduce unnecessary delays of vessels in the ports of each country, the reciprocal recognition of the identity documents issued by the competent authorities to enable crew members from each country to embark from their respective vessels for temporary shore leave, and the simplification of administrative, customs and sanitary formalities applicable to their respective ports.