Regional Air Connectivity: Antigua and Barbuda PM Gaston Browne again pushed for an OECS airline after delays derailed his travel to a CARICOM meeting, arguing current carriers strand regional travellers. Broadband & Energy Infrastructure: Browne also backed a shared OECS ICT network using EU-linked subsea fibre to cut broadband costs, alongside renewed regional work on renewables and geothermal power. ECCB “Big Push” Financing: Browne urged the ECCB to use a small slice of foreign reserves (about 5–8%) to catalyse development projects, aiming to double Eastern Caribbean economies. Food Security & Agriculture: Antigua welcomed the opening of a state-of-the-art tissue culture laboratory to improve planting material and reduce crop losses, supported by a China partnership. Cost of Living & Trade Logistics: CARICOM leaders discussed ferry and energy steps to ease costs, while regional talks highlighted how imported fuel drives price shocks. CBI Pressure in the Spotlight: Multiple reports track the EU’s push to phase out Citizenship by Investment by 2028 and the knock-on risk to visa-free access and small-island budgets. Hospitality & Youth Skills: Taste of Wadadli Junior Chef Academy launched with a new regional pathway for top students, strengthening Antigua’s hospitality pipeline. Aviation Works: V.C. Bird International Airport Phase 3 runway rehabilitation is substantially complete and still on track for September 2026.