Pedernales milestone: it will receive its first cruise next December

Pedernales, DR.- Sigmund Freud, the General Director of the Public Private Alliance (DGAPP), has announced that December 16 of this year will be a historic milestone for Pedernales as it marks the arrival of the first cruise ship to the Port of Cabo Rojo. This date will officially open the province as a tourist destination on an international level.

Freud explained that the Dominican State has already invested approximately $80 to $90 million in the area, and there are plans to invest an additional $150 to $200 million by the end of the year. This investment includes the construction of three hotel buildings with a total of 1,600 rooms.

The developments are complemented by the construction of an airport in the province, estimated to cost between $70 to $75 million.

Freud emphasized that while the government is making significant public investments, they are also seeking private sector partners to ensure the success of the Pedernales project. The goal is to find a private partner to invest the capital needed to complete the first phase, which amounts to approximately $1.3 billion for the construction of the remaining six hotels. Additionally, the Port of Cabo Rojo’s construction work is well underway, and the arrival of the first cruise ships is expected in December.

Freud highlighted the progress being made on the repair and expansion of the Enriquillo-Pedernales highway, which is set to be completed before the end of the year.

The Port of Cabo Rojo will feature four docking positions, a passenger reception center, a water park, an interactive zone, playgrounds, sunbathing areas, a shopping area, a spa, and a main restaurant.

The Dominican Republic and Canada issue a joint statement and highlight the strength of their bilateral relations

Santo Domingo.- The governments of Canada and the Dominican Republic have issued a joint statement emphasizing their strong bilateral relations and longstanding partnership, particularly in the realm of regional security.

Following a call between President Luis Abinader and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on March 30, both countries committed to enhancing their cooperation to address the ongoing crisis in Haiti. Their objective is to support Haitian-led solutions and work towards achieving stability.

The joint statement recognizes that restoring stability in Haiti will alleviate the disproportionate burden on the Dominican Republic, its sole neighboring country. This burden includes social tensions and budgetary pressures on Dominican social services.

Both countries acknowledge that the magnitude of the crisis in Haiti necessitates increased international cooperation in areas such as development, humanitarian assistance, and security. This involves building capacities through the provision of equipment, technical assistance, and training.

Efforts are already underway in Haiti through the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the mobilization of additional resources from Canada and other partners. Canada recently allocated an additional $100 million for this purpose.

Furthermore, the joint statement acknowledges the Dominican Republic’s collaboration with the requests of Haitian authorities to enhance security, facilitate access to strategic goods like fuel, and support the safety of international diplomatic personnel stationed in Haiti, among other measures. Both countries also recognize the ongoing cooperation between regional governments, Haitian authorities, and international organizations such as the United Nations, as well as the efforts led by the United States and CARICOM, among others, to restore the rule of law and address food insecurity in Haiti.

Canada and the Dominican Republic commit to continued collaboration with the international community to support a Haitian-led, long-term solution to the ongoing crisis. They will expand coordination in Haiti, Canada, the Dominican Republic, and elsewhere as necessary, including through increased diplomatic presence at Canadian embassies in Port-au-Prince and Santo Domingo.

Tourism and businessmen from Santiago plan an investment of more than 400 million pesos

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, has reached an agreement with the business sector in Santiago to invest over 400 million pesos in promoting tourism in the province. The meeting, led by the organization Compromiso Santiago and attended by representatives from various economic sectors such as the airport, hotels, restaurants, commerce, clinics, and travel agencies, focused on identifying key areas that need attention in order to position Santiago as one of the country’s main tourist destinations.

Collado explained that the initial investments will be directed towards the creation of the City of Santiago Brand, a project to be coordinated and executed by the private sector. Another priority is the intervention and improvement of the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, one of the province’s main tourist attractions. “We are committed to the tourism development of Santiago. That’s why we took Santiago to the Anato Fair in Colombia, and that’s why we want to make the necessary investments in partnership with the private sector to promote the city’s brand and increase tourist arrivals to the area,” stated Collado during the meeting.

The meeting was coordinated by businessman Manuel Estrella and attended by prominent figures such as Ricardo Founder from Compromiso Santiago, Carlos Iglesias from the Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santiago, Sandy Filpo from the Association of Merchants and Industrialists, Ramón Paulino from the Santiago Tourism Cluster, and Fernando Capellán, Augusto Reyes, Edmundo Aja, among other business leaders.

In addition to the investments, the meeting outlined the necessary guidelines for developing a tourism strategy for Santiago de los Caballeros based on four fundamental pillars to be defined by the private sector.

Manuel Estrella expressed gratitude to Minister Collado for the opportunity to collaborate with the private sector in driving tourism and development initiatives. He highlighted the importance of seizing this opportunity to promote the city.

Ricardo Founder emphasized that as part of the Santiago Commitment, the agreed-upon plans will be implemented with monthly follow-ups to ensure the successful relaunch of tourism in Santiago.

Cruise ship boom triggers job creation in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- The northern regional director of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), Atahualpa Paulino, described the generation of jobs in the province of Puerto Plata as excellent, where he assured that it has increased by more than 200%, due to the boom in cruise ships.

“More than 200% of jobs have been activated. You can’t even walk in the historic center of Puerto Plata because it’s overcrowded with tourists,” said Paulino.

The official said that Puerto Plata has had a boom in cruise tourism, to the point of receiving around a million tourists in the area. He said that he anticipates that some 29 cruise ships will arrive this month.

He assured that all the tourist points of Puerto Plata, as well as the neighboring provinces such as Santiago and even the municipality of Moca, have benefited from this boom in cruise passengers.

He highlighted that the cruise passenger spends an average of 100 dollars and the crew about 80 dollars, according to Accento.

He said that the nationalities of the cruise passengers are very varied, but that they mainly come from the United States since they leave from Florida. Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Europe, and even Asian countries also arrive.

Likewise, the director highlighted that they are working on the conditioning of several areas such as the beautification of the boardwalk of the province and its surroundings, the readaptation of Sosúa beach, the road that leads to the northern beaches was finished, and security is very good. “We are working hand in hand with the other authorities in each tourist spot in Puerto Plata.”

Paulino spoke about the subject when participating in “Tourism in Every Corner” in Moca organized by the Ministry of Tourism, which aims to promote domestic tourism for the local market through the promotion of culture, gastronomy, crafts, ecotourism, and the complementary community offer.

Dominican Republic participates in meeting on Aviation Security

The Eleventh Meeting of the Regional Group on Aviation Security and Facilitation has commenced, with delegates, representatives, directors, and authorities from 20 countries, including the Dominican Republic as the host country. The event, taking place from today until June 23, focuses on regional issues concerning member States and territories of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Hosted by the Civil Aviation Board (JAC) and the Specialized Corps in Airport Security and Civil Aviation (CESAC), the meeting brings together participants from Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Argentina, Brazil, Panama, Uruguay, Colombia, Antigua and Barbuda, Chile, Belize, Haiti, and other countries in the region.

During the meeting, attending delegations will receive updates on initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of facilitation committees, the progress of the project for passengers with disabilities, and the proposal for raising awareness and monitoring the Roadmap of the Identification Program of ICAO Travelers (TRIP) in the region. Additionally, discussions will cover the assessment of progress in facilitation, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and electronic passports (ePassports).

The Eleventh Meeting of the Regional Group aims to provide a platform for seeking solutions and addressing issues related to Aviation Security and Facilitation in the region.

In his opening remarks, the President of the Civil Aviation Board, José Ernesto Marte Piantini, highlighted significant achievements and progress in coordinating public policies in favor of both aspects. Marte Piantini emphasized the Dominican Republic’s active efforts to strengthen facilitation in light of new challenges, stating that it is a commitment shared with other government institutions to enhance implementation levels in the facilitation of air transport.

He also noted that this meeting positions the Dominican Republic as a global reference in Aviation Security and Facilitation for the industry. The gathering will analyze trends and developments in commercial aviation over the course of a week, with the hope that the outcomes will provide solutions for this crucial sector of the regional economy.

The activity is sponsored by the JAC and CESAC and includes representatives from North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Attendees also include the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (CLAC), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), as well as delegates from other states, international organizations, and airlines.

Ministry of Tourism delivers Qualitur certification to the Sheraton Hotel

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Tourism has awarded the Qualitur Tourism Quality Distinction plaque to the Sheraton Santo Domingo Hotel, highlighting the hotel’s commitment to maintaining high-quality standards in the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry. During the award ceremony held at the Sheraton Santo Domingo hotel, Vice Minister of Quality of Tourism Services, Roberto Henríquez, emphasized that companies that receive this distinction convey trust, security, and customer satisfaction through the services they provide.

“With the presentation of this quality label, we all benefit: companies ensure the quality of their services, customers receive the best care, and we, as authorities, ensure the best standards,” stated Vice Minister Henríquez.

He emphasized that Qualitur guarantees superior quality and excellence in the tourism sector, leading to the satisfaction of travelers, guests, clients, or users of any service within the industry.

Vice Minister Henríquez encouraged the executives present to maintain the established standards to continue providing competitive and high-quality services.

The General Director of the Sheraton Hotel, Cesar Oliva, expressed the importance of the QUALITUR certification for their brand and committed to ongoing efforts in management and maintenance.

The ceremony for the delivery of the Qualitur certificate was attended by Jaime Montilla, Director of Quality of Tourist Services, along with other officials from the Ministry of Tourism and business representatives from the sector.

The platform “Tourism in Every Corner” is developed in Espaillat

Espaillat.- The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, presided over the closing ceremony of the fourth activation of the “Tourism in every corner” platform in Moca, located in the Espaillat province. Addressing local authorities and a large audience in Ramón Cáceres Park, Collado emphasized that wherever tourism goes, progress follows. He pledged to continue implementing measures to strengthen tourism development across the country, as this industry provides employment opportunities and stimulates the economy in each region.

The two-day event featured a diverse program of cultural, artistic, and gastronomic activities, as well as an exhibition and sale of crafts and products from the historic province of Espaillat. A total of 142 artisans from the province participated, showcasing their work alongside the display of various tourist attractions.

The Espaillat province is renowned for its abundant agricultural resources, with cassava being one of its most iconic products. Cassava is a staple food in Dominican households and serves as the foundation for numerous traditional dishes. The province also boasts rich gastronomy, with mofongo and parakeet farming being notable highlights.

The “Tourism in Every Corner” initiative aims to promote domestic tourism within the local market by highlighting culture, gastronomy, crafts, ecotourism, and community-based offerings. The platform seeks to involve communities in the tourism sector, which is the country’s primary source of income.

Furthermore, the platform encourages clusters, institutions, and the community at large to actively participate in promoting the unique tourist products of their respective provinces.

“Tourism in every corner” is the first platform dedicated to supporting and promoting local tourism with a focus on sustainability and inclusion. It was officially launched on August 3, 2022, under the leadership of President Luis Abinader and Minister Collado.

The platform has already conducted activations in the provinces of Hermanas Mirabal, Monsignor Nouel, and María Trinidad Sánchez, and held a special gathering at “Son de KeKa” in Santiago.

Bisonó reiterates Dominican Republic lives a favorable climate for investment

San Pedro de Macoris.- Minister of Industry, Commerce, and SMEs, Víctor Ito-Bisonó, reiterated that the Dominican Republic possesses all the necessary conditions to continue attracting new investments and businesses. He emphasized the favorable business climate and President Luis Abinader’s vision to create better mechanisms for entrepreneurs and investors to develop their ventures on Dominican soil.

Speaking at the inauguration of two industrial warehouses in the San Pedro de Macorís Industrial Free Zone, the minister expressed confidence in the country’s ongoing strength as an ideal investment destination due to the government’s vision and the existing favorable conditions.

The first inauguration of the day was the expansion of the Aging Cellars and the workshop for the recovery and reconstruction of barrels of Rums and Bebidas del Caribe Yazoo. Minister Bisonó highlighted the private sector’s demonstration of confidence in continuing to invest and develop projects in the Dominican Republic.

Luis Enrique Yaver, president of Rums and Bebidas del Caribe Yazoo, mentioned that due to sustained growth, the company exports its products in bulk to over 55 countries and produces more than 375 different products, establishing itself as an internationally recognized brand.

In 2022, Yazoo exported over 20 million dollars, representing 95% of its sales. The new industrial warehouses, with an investment of 1.45 million pesos, occupy 6,400 square meters of land and generate 50 new direct jobs. Ulises Rodríguez, director of Proindustria, acknowledged the job creation in the San Pedro de Macorís industrial park, thanks to the support of President Luis Abinader and the private sector.

The second inauguration featured a new industrial warehouse of the Ron Barceló company, also located in the same industrial park. Minister Bisonó emphasized that the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and SMEs actively works on designing public policies that support the strengthening of the country’s business climate, attracting more investment.

Alberto Nogueira, director of Ron Barceló, announced an investment of 10.5 million dollars in the expansion, including the ship, barrels, and alcohol. He also mentioned that production capacity has increased by 24%. Ron Barceló’s products have established the brand as the most exported dark rum in the world, selling to over 90 countries. Additionally, it represents the top-selling spirits brand in Spain in terms of value and volume.

Boca Chica Beach is now free of sargassum

Boca Chica.- The merchants of Boca Chica Beach are extending an invitation to the public to visit the beach, which is now free from the troublesome sargassum that previously hindered the full enjoyment of its waters, sandy shores, and tranquil breeze.

After months of frustration caused by the unfavorable conditions of this iconic beach, it has finally been cleared of the algae, thanks to a collaborative effort between the authorities and local merchants.

Understanding the prolonged period of inactivity resulting from the presence of sargassum, the merchants are urging people to return and relish the beauty of this place. The authorities have conducted a thorough cleaning throughout the entire coast of Boca Chica, ensuring that visitors can come without any concerns.

Although visitor numbers were relatively low this Sunday, the merchants are confident that the news of the beach being sargassum-free will spread, leading to an increase in the number of people returning to enjoy this wonderful destination.

Tropical depression could intensify to a hurricane in the next few days

Santo Domingo.- On Monday morning, Tropical Depression #3 formed, with expectations for it to strengthen into a tropical storm and eventually a hurricane in the coming days, according to Gloria Ceballos, the director of the National Meteorological Office (Onamet).

Ceballos posted on her Twitter account, stating, “Today morning Tropical Depression #3 was formed, the environmental conditions are favorable for it to continue intensifying over the next few days to a tropical storm and then to a hurricane. It would be Bret.”

She also emphasized that the different stages of a tropical cyclone’s development are determined by the intensity of its winds. A tropical depression has winds below 63 kilometers per hour (kph), while those of a tropical storm range from 63 to 119 kph. Winds greater than 118 kph classify a system as a hurricane.

Ceballos further clarified that all these weather systems are classified as tropical cyclones.

The Hilton Garden Inn La Romana by Edwin Encarnación will open in July

Santo Domingo.- Former Major League Baseball player Edwin Encarnación, who is the main shareholder of the Hilton Garden Inn La Romana Hotel, announced that the hotel complex will open its doors at the end of July.

Encarnación, a native of La Romana, stated that the hotel is in its final stage of completion and that they have made significant sacrifices to bring the project to fruition. The grand opening of the Hilton La Romana hotel is scheduled for July.

The hotel, located in the Caleta Municipal District of La Romana, represents a $17 million investment and features 127 rooms. It is situated just a short distance from Catalina Island, one of the region’s main natural attractions. The hotel complex is expected to generate around 300 jobs, contributing to the local economy and the tourism industry in the Dominican Republic.

Encarnación highlighted the positive impact the hotel will have on La Romana province and Dominican tourism. He expressed his excitement that tourists will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Catalina Island, which is located right in front of the hotel. He believes that this will be of great benefit to both the Dominican people and tourism in general.

When asked about future projects, Encarnación did not rule out the possibility of undertaking similar ventures. He stated that they will take things step by step and evaluate potential projects and visions that come their way before making a decision.

Alcarrizos Cable Car begins commercial operation this Saturday, 17th

Fare for the modern integrated transportation system will be RD$35.00, including taking the OMSA and getting to the SD Metro.

Starting this Saturday, June 17, users of the Los Alcarrizos Cable Car will begin paying for the system’s service with a single integrated fare of RD$35.00, which includes the complete cable car route, as well as the new feeder routes created by the OMSA and operating under the Integrated Transportation System (SIT).

These new routes are the ones that go from Los Alcarrizos Station to Km. 09 of the Duarte Highway and the Expreso 27 de Febrero route to “Huacalito.” Using this integrated fare of 35.00 pesos will allow users to save up to 35% of the daily resources to pay for transportation, equivalent to 20% in the basic family basket.

Additionally, the Office of Special Projects of Urban and Interurban Mobility, the entity responsible for the operations of this line, informed that the system users would have different forms of payment to facilitate their access to this means of transportation.

Users can pay in cash by going directly to the ticket office using the Metro card, the SDGo Integrated Transportation System card, which can be acquired and recharged at the Cable Car and Santo Domingo Metro stations.

Likewise, citizens can pay with all VISA and MasterCard debit and credit cards containing EMV technology (those with the wifi symbol on the outside).

The different forms of payment will allow a much more pleasant experience when accessing the stations, resulting in a faster, more efficient, safe and comfortable entrance, avoiding long lines, cash handling and saving time”.

From the beginning of the system’s operations until last Sunday, June 11, more than 750 thousand citizens used its facilities.

The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays and holidays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Moves faster

This cable transportation system directly impacts around 400,000 people, reducing travel time, reducing transportation costs, and increasing accessibility to a safe and comfortable transportation system, thus contributing to improving the quality of life of its users.

European Union supports the Caribbean with resources to combat sargasso

The investment in cleaning a kilometer of beach with sargassum is between US$800,000 and US$1.5 million a year; as this is a problem that affects 34 countries in the Caribbean and Latin America, which endangers the marine ecosystem and its socio-economic means such as fishing and tourism, this estimate was given by the research of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

For this reason, Katja Afheldt, ambassador of the European Union, assured that the entity supports the Caribbean countries with economic resources and technical training to combat sargassum. It is seen as an opportunity.

According to the local press, the EU intends to support research into sargassum and finance companies wishing to carry out projects to use it economically.

The embassy gave these details during the Greater Caribbean-EU Regional Conference: Turning Sargasso into an Opportunity, which took place in Santo Domingo and brought together the highest authorities, experts from the public and private sectors, academia, and NGOs from the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe.

The event, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mirex), the European Union, and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, aims to exchange information on mitigating or using sargassum for the entire region’s benefit.

Minister Almonte highlights the impact of mining on the economy of the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Energy and Mines, Antonio Almonte, has highlighted the Dominican Republic’s significant mining potential and its positive impact on the national economy through foreign currency earnings from resource exports. Almonte emphasized that the country has regulations and institutions in place to ensure that mining operations are safe and environmentally compatible.

In addition to the revenue generated for the Dominican treasury, mining production creates thousands of jobs and stimulates local business activity, as mining companies often purchase services and products from small and medium-sized industries. Almonte referred to this as the productive chain, where economic growth is stimulated through job creation and business expansion.

Almonte acknowledged that mining plays a fundamental role in scientific advancements and is essential for social, economic, and technological development. He emphasized that the Dominican Republic supports responsible mining practices, aiming to harness the country’s resources without negatively impacting the environment or local communities quality of life.

To obtain authorization for mining operations, companies are required to conduct environmental impact studies based on international standards. These studies, involving specialists from various environmental perspectives, typically take one to two years and entail significant costs. The evaluations are carried out by experts in different mining aspects, and upon approval, the companies are granted exploitation licenses. The Ministry of the Environment and the Mining Department conducts regular inspections to ensure that mining operations are conducted sustainably.

Almonte’s statements highlight the government’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices, recognizing the potential benefits for the national economy while prioritizing environmental protection and community well-being.

Dominican Republic is heading towards sustainable and responsible construction

Santo Domingo.- CEMEX Dominicana, a construction materials company, is committed to sustainability and environmental protection in the Dominican Republic. Through improvements in production, operations, and product innovation, CEMEX aims to support and enhance the construction sector while reducing its environmental impact.

During a panel discussion at the Construction Summit 2023, José Cabrera, Director of CEMEX for the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, emphasized the company’s dedication to developing a sustainable construction sector that cares for the environment and meets market demands. Rapid urbanization in the country and globally necessitates intelligent construction practices supported by innovation and digitization, which can contribute to mitigating climate change and resource scarcity while improving societal well-being.

Cabrera highlighted CEMEX’s focus on offering products with reduced environmental impact, aligning with sectors such as tourism and the economy. The company aims to build a better future by providing durable and environmentally friendly construction materials.

CEMEX is a global leader in providing comprehensive solutions for sustainable and resilient cities. Through its “Future in Action” strategy, the company is actively developing products, solutions, and processes with low carbon emissions. Their goal is to achieve zero CO2 emissions.

Among the sustainable products and solutions developed by CEMEX, Cabrera mentioned Vertua General Use Titan Cement, which reduces emissions by 25% to 40%, and Vertua Concrete, which reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 30% to 50% compared to standard concrete.

These innovations not only enable the construction sector to utilize high-quality and efficient materials but also position the Dominican Republic as a model for sustainable solutions in the industry.

American Airlines announces increased flights to the Dominican Republic in winter

Santo Domingo.- American Airlines has announced plans to increase its flights to the Dominican Republic for the upcoming winter holiday season in 2023. The airline will enhance its service to popular Dominican destinations such as Punta Cana (PUJ), Puerto Plata (POP), and Santiago (STI), with up to 25 daily flights during the peak period of the season.

Starting in early December, American Airlines will expand its service to Punta Cana (PUJ) from multiple hubs including Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and New York (JFK). This will result in more than 85 weekly flights to the Caribbean region.

Furthermore, beginning December 5, American Airlines will increase its service from Charlotte (CLT) to Puerto Plata (POP) to daily flights, and from Charlotte (CLT) to Punta Cana (PUJ) to four daily flights. The airline also plans to augment its service from Miami (MIA) to Puerto Plata (POP) and Santiago (STI) from one daily flight to two daily flights.

With these additional frequencies, American Airlines will operate over 150 weekly flights to the Dominican Republic, representing a capacity increase of more than 30% for the 2023-2024 holiday season compared to the same period in the previous year.

José María Giraldo, Managing Director for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean at American Airlines, expressed the airline’s commitment to serving the Dominican Republic and its excitement about offering customers an extensive winter program, facilitating travel to the country.

Tickets for these flights will be available for purchase starting June 18 on the American Airlines website (aa.com).

Embassy of Italy celebrates the 75th anniversary of its national holiday in the Dominican Republic

Santiago.- The Italian Embassy celebrated the 75th anniversary of Italy’s national holiday and the 125th anniversary of bilateral relations between Italy and the Dominican Republic in a grand event that showcased Italian culture and traditions. The gathering took place at the Fray Antonio de Montesino Monument in the Colonial City and was attended by a large crowd. As part of the festivities, the embassy is now preparing for the celebration of Italy’s national holiday in the Central Park of Santiago on June 24.

The Italian Ambassador, Stefano Queirolo Palmas, explained that this occasion marks the beginning of the national holiday series, which now includes not only Santo Domingo but also Santiago. He also highlighted the active participation of a group in Salcedo, where the commemoration of the Mirabal Sisters aligns with the Italian liberation struggle.

Throughout history, Italy and the Dominican Republic have maintained a relationship of collaboration and mutual contribution. The Dominican Republic is home to approximately 50,000 Italians, while an equal number of Dominicans form the Creole diaspora in Italy, which is the third largest in the world. The Italian presence has a significant impact on the Dominican economy through Italian residents, tourists, remittances, and the social work of Italian-linked companies, foundations, NGOs, and volunteers. Italy’s influence is particularly notable in sectors such as tourism, air transport, cruises, commerce, wine and gastronomy, agriculture, construction, cement, water, renewable energy, and security.

The ambassador emphasized the strong university cooperation between the two countries in various fields, including medicine, environment, urban planning, space, archaeology, genetics, seismic engineering, and materials physics.

Furthermore, the ambassador acknowledged the collective efforts of the European Union and the team of ambassadors from member countries, known as Team Europe, in transforming their commitment to the future of the Dominican Republic into reality. Thanks to agreements such as the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and other European programs, trade between the Dominican Republic and the European single market has increased by 231%. Dominican-Italian trade has doubled in just two years, positioning Italy and Spain as the leading European trade partners of the Dominican Republic.

Photographic exhibition “Depths that tell stories” will arrive at the Museum of the Royal Shipyards of Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo.- From June 30 to September 8, the Museum of the Royal Shipyards will host an intriguing photographic exhibition titled “Depths that Tell Stories.” This unique exhibition brings together the captivating work of divers and explorers who participated in daring underwater expeditions. These intrepid adventurers uncovered a portion of the extensive underwater heritage of the Dominican Republic, which is now showcased in the MAR museum. The exhibition’s mesmerizing photographs depict moments and landscapes captured from the depths of the Dominican coast, recounting tales of shipwrecks and researchers. Through these images, visitors are invited to contemplate underwater archaeology, appreciate the wonders of nature, and delve into the hidden cultural treasures concealed among the corals and sands.

“Depths that Tell Stories” features a collection of photographs generously donated by architect Pedro José Borrell Bentz and researcher Burt Webber. This exhibition provides a remarkable opportunity to explore the submerged world through the eyes of those who have brought countless archaeological artifacts to the surface. It presents multiple perspectives from participants in various expeditions who have investigated and shared the stories of different shipwrecks.

The Museo de las Atarazanas Reales, a symbol of Santo Domingo’s naval history and archaeology, provides the perfect setting to bring this photographic exhibition to life. Visitors will have the chance to immerse themselves in a world of captivating images and marvel at the astonishing wonders hidden beneath the ocean’s depths.

The exhibition will be open to the public at the Museo de las Atarazanas Reales in Santo Domingo from June 30 to September 8, 2023. For further details about the exhibition and the museum, please visit @museodelmarrd on social media.

Airport Department evaluates construction of three heliports

Santo Domingo.- The Airport Department (DA) has announced that it has initiated the assessment process for several potential sites for the construction of three new heliports in the East and Northeast regions of the Dominican Republic.

In a statement, the DA stated that these new heliports are part of their ongoing expansion and optimization project for the National Heliport Network (RNH).

The lands under evaluation are situated near Esmeralda Beach in Miches, El Seibo province; in the municipality of Cabrera in María Trinidad Sánchez province; and on Cayo Levantado islet in Samaná province.

“We are taking the initial step, which involves searching for and evaluating suitable land for the construction of these heliports. They are essential not only for strengthening rescue and emergency transfer operations through the National Heliport Network but also for enhancing executive tourism and business as connecting points,” explained Víctor Pichardo, Director of the DA.

Pichardo further mentioned that the operations of this Network will soon be augmented by the heliports at Dr. Ángel Contreras Hospital in Monte Plata and the Dra. Andrea Evangelina Rodríguez Perozo Health City in Santo Domingo province. Construction of these heliports is currently in its final phase.

The implementation of these new heliports aims to enhance connectivity, facilitate emergency response, and support the growth of executive tourism and business in the respective regions.

Tripadvisor recognizes Dominican Republic as Caribbean’s most popular destination; 9th in the world

anto Domingo.– Tripadvisor published its “Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best” awards for 2023, in which the Dominican Republic is recognized as the 9th most popular tourist destination in the world, and the first in the Caribbean.

The publication places our country at the top of the Caribbean nations, followed by Aruba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten, which complete the top 5 of the regional ranking.

Worldwide, the Dominican Republic is the only destination that appears in the top 10 as a country, while the other destinations are cities, which is due to the positioning strategy of the country brand, above the brand of some of the particular destinations of the nation such as Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Samana, etc.

The top 10 most popular destinations in the world is headed by Dubai, followed by Bali, London, Rome, Paris, Cancun, Crete, Dominican Republic and Istanbul. This positions the country as a more popular destination than Barcelona, Madrid or New York, for example.

Tripadvisor explains that the these “Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best” awards recognize destinations whose hotels, restaurants and things to do received a high volume of reviews and opinions from its community over a 12-month period. Less than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings receive the Best of the Best award, signifying the highest level of travel excellence.

According to the Tourism Ministry, this new recognition for the Dominican Republic reaffirms the take-off of the country’s tourism sector, which continues to be the fastest growing sector of the Dominican economy in 2023.