TCI Border Force Elevates Leadership Excellence Through Emotional Intelligence Training
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force continues to advance its leadership capacity and organisational resilience with the successful completion of a three-day Emotional Intelligence Training Programme for its management staff. The training, facilitated by Mr. Lorenzo Casapia of the International Business and Economic Forum (IBE Forum), was held under the theme “Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Training for Government Leaders.”
The training unfolded across three interactive sessions:
The training comprised three interactive sessions focused on self-awareness and emotional regulation, empathy and coaching for high-performing teams, and relationship-building through effective communication, feedback, and conflict resolution, equipping officers with neuroscience-based strategies and leadership tools to strengthen performance and team dynamics.
Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Immigration and Border Services, Hon. Jamell Robinson, commended the initiative, emphasising the importance of emotionally intelligent leadership:
“The completion of this Emotional Intelligence programme reflects our commitment to developing leaders who are not only skilled but emotionally attuned to the needs of their teams and the communities they serve. Emotional intelligence is a strategic asset one that empowers our officers to lead with empathy, manage conflict constructively, and inspire excellence.”
Director General Emilio Seymour highlighted the significance of this milestone in the Force’s leadership journey: “This training marks an important step in our growth as an organisation. Emotional intelligence is central to effective leadership, particularly in high-pressure environments like border security. Our team now has enhanced tools to lead with clarity, compassion, and confidence.”
The TCI Border Force remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the security and prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through ongoing investment in leadership development, the Force continues to build a resilient, emotionally intelligent team, one equipped to meet the evolving demands of border operations and public service.
DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIOURAL HEALTH SERVICES CELEBRATES WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2025
The Department of Behavioural Health Services (DBHS) hosted its World Mental Health Day 2025 Conference on October 10, bringing together government, healthcare, civil society, and community members under the theme “The Power of Community: Connecting for Mental Health.” The event showcased a full day of dialogue, inspiration, and reflection, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in promoting mental well-being across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The conference opened with remarks from Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of DBHS, who shared key trends in mental health. She noted that while mental health often receives limited attention globally, progress is happening locally. Over the past year, DBHS conducted over 4,000 counselling sessions, responded to more than 250 crisis calls, delivered over 50 educational sessions, and spent 220 hours on community outreach. Dr. Malcolm emphasized that mental health support is like a woven fabric, strengthened through collaboration, and noted the need to have mental health resources expand to meet rising demands.
Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams encouraged attendees to remember that mental health is part of overall wealth. She highlighted stigma in its many forms and emphasized that it is okay to say you are not okay. She also encouraged everyone to take advantage of opportunities and resources to care of themselves while also checking in on friends and loved ones.
Minister of Health and Human Services Hon. Kyle R. Knowles reinforced the government’s commitment to mental health, stating, “Our responsibility is to ensure that support and resources for mental health are not just promises but tangible realities that reach every community member in need.” His remarks underscored leadership, action, and partnership as essential to fostering a resilient society.
The keynote address by Ms. Cynthia Joseph, Registered Nurse and HR Manager at Gilley’s Enterprises, titled “Leadership Promises vs. Lived Reality: Who Really Pays the Cost?”, resonated deeply with attendees. Many participants commented on how her timely and empowering message would guide them in their leadership roles. The conference also featured a moving spoken word performance by Ms. Nideka Misick, which brought personal experiences to life and reinforced the human side of mental health.
Healthcare presentations by Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing, Chief of Medical Services at Turks & Caicos Hospital, Dr. Kristi-Ann Sharp, Physician at Ministry of Health’s Primary Health Care, and Dr. Leston Payne, General Practitioner and Infectious Disease Specialist at Family Care Medical Services, highlighted the importance of a bio-psychosocial approach, shifting focus from purely physical interventions and demonstrating progress toward integrated, holistic care.
The panel discussion, “Whose Job Is It Anyway? Mental Health Across the System,” moderated by Mrs. Tonya Greaves, Psychologist at DBHS, was engaging and energetic. Panellists Mr. Teran Spence, Mrs. Stacey Jogie, Dr. Jadetra Ingraham, and Mrs. Laura Dowrich shared insights on real-world challenges and cross-sector collaboration.
Ms. Tiara McTaire, Mental Health Education Specialist and Chairperson of the DBHS Planning Committee, led an interactive session connecting participants over shared experiences. Using a card activity, attendees reflected on common mental health challenges, sparking lively conversation, laughter, and reflection. The session, alongside the social media initiative “flooding the feed” with positive mental health messages, captured the theme of connecting for mental health in TCI.
Dr. Coryse Penco closed the conference with “Re-Sensitizing Our Islands: Turning Shared Struggles into Shared Strength,” tying together the day’s discussions and leaving participants inspired to continue fostering resilience and community connections.
World Mental Health Day 2025 is a reminder that mental health is a shared responsibility. Through dialogue, creative expression, and collaboration, the conference strengthened connections between government, health providers, civil society, and the community.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services and DBHS reaffirm their commitment to building a mentally healthy community where residents, families, and organizations can thrive. Mental health is everyone’s responsibility, and events like these showcase the power of connection in creating a stronger, more resilient Turks and Caicos Islands.
A Year of Action and Progress: DBHS Initiatives 2025
Over the past year, DBHS strengthened mental health awareness, education, and community support across all islands, reflecting a commitment to practical education, outreach, and meaningful community connection. Key initiatives included:
The Bridge Series – Learning and discussion sessions for professionals and community members:
Supporting Children’s Mental Health & Wellbeing (2 sessions)
Brief Interventions: Guiding Change
Differentiating Normal Grief from Pathology
Building Inner Resilience
Guidance Counsellor Support Session
Prison-Based Programs – Structured programs focused on rehabilitation, resilience, and personal growth:
Life After Life: Reclaiming Purpose
Pathways to Accountability: A Guide for Positive Change
I Can Recover
Anger Management Program
Community Engagement and Youth Outreach – Reaching communities across all islands:
Morning Pause and Panel Discussions
Coffee and Conversations
International Day Against Drugs: Youth Expo
Participation in Youth Skills Fair and Career Days
Pockets of Hope: Suicide Prevention Awareness Activity
Shift Your Mind: Reframing Mental Health in the TCI (anti-stigma program launch)
Enhancing Accessibility: A booking link for individual requests and referrals improved timely access to programs and services across the islands.
GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Marc Rawlins as the new Chair of the Human Rights Commission, and the appointment of Dr. François Bourne, Ms. Llana Ewing and Rev. Frednor Toussaint as members of the Commission, marking an important step in strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The appointments are made by the Governor, acting after consultation with the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Leader of the Opposition, in accordance with Section 101(1) of the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Section 3(2) of the Human Rights Commission Ordinance.
New Chair of the Human Rights Commission
Mr. Marc Rawlins, who currently serves as Deputy Chair of the Human Rights Commission, brings over10 years of experience in law, corporate governance and regulatory compliance. He has previously served as Legal Adviser and Secretary to the Board of Commissioners of the Financial Services Commission and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and Chartered Director. His appointment as Chair provides both continuity of leadership and a strong legal foundation for the Commission’s work
New Members of the Human Rights Commission
Dr. François Bourne is a General Physician with extensive experience in community health and national service. He has served as a member of both the National Health Insurance Board and the National Insurance Board and continues to make significant contributions to primary care in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Ms. Llana Ewing brings a strong background in operations, human resources and organisational development within the hospitality and service sectors, having served as Director of Quality Assurance and Training at Grace Bay Resorts and currently as Director of Rooms at Point Grace Resort.
Rev. Frednor Toussaint, Superintendent of the South Turks and Caicos Islands Circuit of the Methodist Church, has over 25 years of ministry and community service, working to strengthen faith-based engagement and social inclusion across the Islands.
Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointments, stating:
“I congratulate Mr Marc Rawlins on his appointment as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Having served with distinction as Deputy Chair, he brings not only a depth of experience, but a steadfast commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights across our Islands. I am confident that under his leadership, the Commission will continue to plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all who call the Turks and Caicos Islands home are respected and protected.
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Chair Ms Roxanne Wake-Forbes for her leadership and unwavering dedication as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Under her stewardship, the Commission has deepened its impact and strengthened the foundations of human rights protections across our Islands.
Finally, I wish to express my appreciation to Ms Melanie Smith, whose term also concludes. Her contributions have enriched the Commission’s work and helped shape policies that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
“Together, these individuals exemplify the values we hold dear - commitment, courage and compassion in service to the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Mr. Marc Rawlins, the incoming Chair of the Human Rights Commission, expressed his appreciation on behalf of the new members:
“It is an honour to be entrusted with this responsibility to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Human rights form the cornerstone of any democratic society and we are committed to ensuring that the Commission continues to promote and protect these rights with transparency and fairness. We look forward to engaging with communities across the Islands to raise awareness and strengthen confidence in the human rights framework”.
Region observing Caribbean Statistics Day
Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary general, Dr. Carla Barnett Wednesday underscored the importance of statistics to regional development saying that the 15-member grouping is at the midpoint of implementing the 12-year Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics.
In a message marking Caribbean Statistics Day 2025, Barnett said that the occasion coincides with the culmination of the 2024-2025 Year of Statistics in CARICOM, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Standing Committee of Caribbean Statisticians.
Caribbean Statistics Day is being observed under theme “Improving Lives through Statistics: Strengthening and Innovating Together” and the CARICOM Secretary General said that during the year, the region placed renewed emphasis on Standards and Harmonization and the integration of statistical systems.
She said key regional instruments have been successfully piloted and are now being institutionalized, including the CARICOM Quality Assurance Framework, CARICOM Code of Good Statistical Practices, and the Generic Statistical Business Process Model to guide the end-to-end lifecycle of all statistical activities.
”CARICOM is at the midpoint of implementing the 12-year Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics, which provides a clear roadmap with mechanisms to strengthen statistical systems, ensuring that accurate and timely data inform decision-making.
”CARICOM governments are reviewing the necessary legal and institutional frameworks, and seeking to provide the financial, technical and human resources to support the work of National Statistical Offices, including taking note of the increasing role for digital transformation and modernised statistical operation,” Barnett said.
But she acknowledged that “the journey ahead is as critical as the progress behind us” and in the community spirit which exemplifies CARICOM, “a harmonized regional approach to statistics development will continue to be essential as we strive to fill data gaps and improve statistical standards across the region.
”On Caribbean Statistics Day, we therefore recommit to strengthening national and regional statistical processes to ensure timely and accurate data for decision-making, in keeping with our theme this year,” she added.
Source-CMC
BAHAMAS PM makes direct pitch to workers as unions plan nationwide strike
Prime Minister Phillip Davis has appealed to public sector workers to take into consideration the existing socio-economic conditions in The Bahamas as trade unions plan mass demonstrations across the country on Wednesday in support of their demands for the payment of salary increases to their members.
The Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) and Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) have called on workers to march in downtown Nassau, with the BUT urging teachers in Grand Bahama to gather outside the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in Freeport, and for Family Island teachers to stay at home.
The BUT and other unions are demanding retroactive pay dating back to September 2024, and that all increases be applied and paid by the October payday, not December as previously stated by the government.
“Senior civil servants already received their retroactive pay — thousands of dollars — backdated to September of last year. We’re saying the small man deserves the same. This isn’t a gift. It’s money already earned,” said BUT President, Belinda Wilson.
But In a national broadcast on Tuesday night, Prime Minister Davis said that he was appealing directly to the workers saying that when he came into office in 2021, “we met a country still recovering from crises.
“The economy was fragile. Thousands of Bahamians were out of work. Public finances were under strain. And within the public service, morale was low. Salaries had been stagnant. Promotions were delayed. Contract workers were stuck in limbo. Pensioners were struggling to live on fixed incomes that hadn’t been adjusted in years.”
Davis said that over the past four years, the government has worked steadily to restore fairness, dignity, and opportunity for workers.
“We restored annual increments in the public service, those small but important step increases that reward years of service. For thousands of public officers, that meant more money in their pockets every year and an acknowledgment of their dedication.
“We raised the national minimum wage for the first time in seven years, from US$210 to US$260 a week. That single decision increased take-home pay by nearly a quarter for the lowest-paid workers in this country. For many families, it meant an extra bag of groceries, a school uniform, or a light bill paid on time.”
He said that the government has negotiated and signed over 59 labour agreements, providing new wage increases, better allowances, modernized benefits, and clear career paths.
“And still, with all of this progress, I was not satisfied. I knew we could do more for the men and women who serve this country every day. That’s why I initiated the national salary review, not the unions, not anyone else. I did it because I believed Bahamian workers deserved more. That is how we got to this moment.”
Prime Minister Davis said that he met with the leadership of the BUT and other public service unions, discussing the national salary review as well as the process the government initiated to ensure every public servant is paid fairly.
He said “we reviewed the findings, exchanged ideas” and agreed to meet for further discussions.
“But while we were still at the table, one of the union leaders made a public threat to call a national strike if I did not agree to the terms being demanded. Now, I understand emotions. I understand frustration. People want results. But when both sides are still talking, the respectful thing to do is to finish the conversation.”
Prime Minister Davis said that so instead of continuing under that kind of dynamic, he has decided to speak directly to the Bahamian people.
“Here’s where we are. The national salary review is complete, and it will be made public. While the review did not include every category of public servants, the same methodology will be applied to ensure increases are extended across the wider public service.”
He said that the findings show that since coming to office in 2021, public officers have received salary increases every year, and that entry-level workers, the ones earning the least, have benefited the most with the consistency and regularity of their reassessments, salary adjustments, and increments, ensuring that these officers received their due in a structured, timely way, after many years of delay.
“We did this because we made a decision to put workers first. Some have asked about the delay. The delay was not a cash flow problem. It was an administrative process, making sure the new salary adjustments for more than fifteen thousand public officers were accurate, fair, and done right the first time.
“I am satisfied we have resolved the issue, and I want to reassure every public servant that you will be paid before Christmas,” Davis said, adding “the union leaders have to do their jobs, to represent their members.
“But I have to do mine, to represent all Bahamians. My responsibility is not only to one group, but to every citizen who depends on a strong, stable country. Some have asked what the grievance really is. There is no grievance here.
“The grandstanding and public drama do not change the fact that this Government is paying workers as promised. So the question must be asked, is the objection to the fact that we are paying? Surely, no one can object to fairness being delivered.”
Prime Minister Davis said he will on Thursday meet with other trade union leaders to continue the national conversation about how “we keep moving forward together” adding “I have always respected the role of unions in our national story.
“I believe discussions work best when there is mutual respect and trust. I have always been a respectful and patient listener, and I am open to any conversation held in good faith. But I will not take part in any process where dark clouds of threats hang over the table.
“That is not how I was raised, and that is not how I lead. I don’t believe in shouting matches or grandstanding,” Davis said, adding “ I will not sit in any room where respect is not mutual and shouting is the only tool on the table”.
Source-CMC
THREE DAYS WEATHER FROM WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 15TH 2025
A dissipating frontal boundary will move swiftly across the Turks and Caicos Islands today. Widely scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms are occurring along and ahead of the boundary.
WEATHER: Partly cloudy to cloudy with a medium (40 to 50 percent) chance of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms through tonight. New total rainfall accumulation of up to a half of an inch, with higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
WINDS: Variable at 10 knots or less, becoming northwesterly at 10 knots or less tonight.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic – 2 to 4 feet
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 90°F 32°C
HEAT INDEX 104°F 40°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 06:24 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 04:32 PM (2.6 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 11:08 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: Drier conditions will follow behind the frontal boundary. Over the weekend, high pressure will build across the area, bringing a dry air mass and breezy conditions across the islands.
THURSDAY: A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a high near 88°F (31°C).
THURSDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 79°F (26°C).
WINDS: Northwesterly at 10 knots or less
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic – 3 to 5 feet
SUNRISE: 06:45 AM
SUNSET: 06:23 PM
HIGH TIDE: 04:45 AM (2.0 FT) 05:30 PM (3.0 FT)
LOW TIDE: 10:55 AM (0.3 FT)
FRIDAY: Isolated showers possible in the afternoon. Partly sunny, with a high near 88°F (31°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: Fair, with a low around 77°F (25°C).
WINDS: Northwest to north at 10 knots or less, falling light and variable at times.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic – 4 to 6 feet
SUNRISE: 06:45 AM
SUNSET: 06:22 PM
HIGH TIDE: 05:50 AM (2.7 FT) 06:24 PM (2.6 FT)
LOW TIDE: 12:01 AM (0.7 FT) 12:01 PM (1.0 FT)
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: See the latest News Item issued by the Bahamas Department of Meteorology on newly formed Tropical Storm Lorenzo, located in the central Tropical Atlantic.
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT HOSTS INTRODUCTORY TRAINING ON WATER SAMPLING, ONSITE TESTING, AND VECTOR CONTROL
The Environmental Health Department conducted an introductory training session focused on water sampling, onsite water testing, and vector control for inmates and members of the maintenance management team of His Majesty’s Prison. The sessions were led by Deputy Chief Environmental Health Officer - Crivanne Adams and Vector Control Officer - Narada Williams.
This collaborative initiative aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of essential public health practices that contribute to a safer and healthier environment within correctional facilities.
The vector control component of the training provided participants with the knowledge and skills to:
Identify common pests and vectors and understand their associated health risks.
Recognize early signs of infestation.
Apply safe, effective, and sustainable control measures.
Learn the basics of mosquito and rodent surveillance.
Properly use chemical control agents in a safe and responsible manner.
The water sampling and onsite testing segment covered hands-on training in essential water quality monitoring techniques, including how to:
Conduct basic field tests for water clarity, colour, and odour.
Measure free and total chlorine levels using colorimetric devices.
Test pH levels for potable water.
Safely handle and store chlorine used in water treatment.
Properly collect water samples for microbial testing such as E. coli and total coliforms.
Beyond improving facility operations, the training also provided inmates with transferable skills that can support future employment and personal development upon release. By introducing participants to environmental health practices, the program aims to inspire new interests and open pathways to careers in fields such as environmental services, maintenance and public health.
Superintendent Woodbine commented on the training:
“This training is a valuable step in improving our prison. This training will equip and enable us to continue to make important improvements to the living and working environment.
Improving the prison through a programme of Planned and Preventative Maintenance (PPM), which will now include this critical training, is another demonstration of the progress the prison is making.
Skilling prisoners and staff with valuable hands on training and vocational learning is at the center of what our prison is committed to do, rehabilitating prisoners, reducing reoffending, improving and promoting health and protecting our communities.
I am proud of the staff and prisoners who have completed this training. I would like to thank the Ministry of Health and Human Services, in particular the Department of Environmental Health, for their enthusiastic collaboration and ongoing support. We both agree this training represents the first steps in expanding training and learning which will benefit the prison and wider island communities”.
The Environmental Health Department remains committed to providing ongoing education and training opportunities that promote environmental stewardship, public health awareness, and sustainable facility management practices.
Heavy rains flood Mexico towns, leaves many dead or missing
Torrential rains that lashed Mexico last week killed at least 64 people and 65 more are missing, the government said on Monday, after a tropical depression triggered landslides and flooding in parts of the Gulf Coast and central states.
The unnamed depression came toward the end of the rainy season, battering land and bursting rivers that had already been soaked by months of rains, while forecasters were focused on tropical storms and two hurricanes on the Pacific coast.
"This intense rain was not expected to be of such magnitude," President Claudia Sheinbaum told reporters.
Admiral Raymundo Morales, Mexico's Navy secretary, said the flooding was the result of the coming together of warm and cold air fronts over rivers that were already filled to the brink and mountains weakened by months of rain.
Around 100,000 homes were affected, Sheinbaum said. She is set to meet with the finance ministry later in the day to discuss rebuilding efforts, and visit some hard-hit states.
Laura Velazquez, national coordinator of civil protection, said Hidalgo and Veracruz were the states worst affected, with 29 deaths and 18 missing reported in Veracruz, and 21 deaths and 43 missing in Hidalgo.
The rain also destroyed infrastructure such as bridges and left streets filled with mud. Videos and images from last week showed emergency responders wading through deep waters to find stranded residents and get supplies to affected communities.
Source- The Star
Tron: Ares tops box office; Roofman in at #2
Tron: Ares, the third film in the Tron sci-fi franchise that started back in 1982, zoomed its way to #1 at the box office over the weekend.
According to Box Office Mojo, the movie, starring Jared Leto, Jeff Bridges, Greta Lee and Evan Peters, took in $33.5 million over the weekend.
Tron: Ares, the third film in the Tron franchise, has arrived in theaters. Its star Jared Leto told ABC owned station WPVI he has been a huge fan of Tron going back to when he was 11 years old and seeing the original film at the movie theater.
"For me, Tron is like someone else's Star Wars," Leto said:
Leto also praised the 2010 sequel Tron: Legacy, saying, "It took us to a new place and I absolutely adore that film as well."
Now, with Tron: Ares, the original film's star Jeff Bridges returns to his role as Kevin Flynn while Leto stars as a highly sophisticated AI being that is brought to the real world for a dangerous mission.
Leto says it was surreal to act alongside Bridges in the film.
"He's incredible, one of my favorite actors of all time," Leto said. "When he walked on the set for the first time, everyone applauded because they were so excited to have him."
Leto still remembers going to see the original Tron in theaters and says it is a dream come true to become part of the franchise he loves so much.
However Variety notes that number is disappointing, given that the film was initially predicted to bring in as much as $50 million.
Channing Tatum's latest film Roofman debuted at #2 with $8 million. The only other top-10 debut was Soul on Fire, a faith-based film based on the true story of a man who survives being burned in a fire. It brought in $3 million, good enough for fifth place.
Meanwhile, Jennifer Lopez's remake of Kiss of the Spider Woman failed to make the top 10, entering at #12 with a take of just under $919,000.
Here are the top 10 films at the box office:
1. Tron: Ares -- $33.5 million
2. Roofman -- $8 million
3. One Battle After Another -- $6.675 million
4. Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie -- $3.35 million
5. Soul on Fire -- $3 million
6. The Conjuring: Last Rites -- $2.9 million
7. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba The Movie - Infinity Castle -- $2.25 million
8. The Smashing Machine -- 1.796 million
9. The Strangers: Chapter 2 -- $1.55 million
10. Good Boy -- $1.36 million
Source-ABC
Trump, world leaders gather in Egypt for ceasefire deal signing with Netanyahu absent
President Donald Trump joined more than 20 world leaders in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on Monday for talks on Gaza's future with the first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement underway.
Among those gathered for the summit were Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former Prime Minister Tony Blair, as well as officials from Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey.
The group posed for a family picture in front a sign that read "Peace 2025" before a signing ceremony on the agreement.
"This took 3,000 years to get to this point. Can you believe it? And it's going to hold up, too. It's going to hold up,” Trump said in the middle of signing the documents.
Trump is also set to deliver formal remarks in which he will tout the breakthrough as a turning point for the region.
"This is the day that people across this region and around the world have been working, striving, hoping, and praying for. With the historic agreement we have just signed, those prayers of millions have finally been answered. Together, we have achieved the impossible," Trump will say, according to excerpts of his speech released by the White House.
"All the momentum now is toward a great, glorious, and lasting peace," he is expected to say.
Noticeably absent from the signing ceremony and talks in Egypt, though, were representatives for Hamas and Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office cited the Jewish holiday as the reason for his absence, despite him having been directly invited by Trump.
Just hours before, Trump and Netanyahu heaped praise on one another as Trump addressed Israel's parliament. Trump hailed Netanyahu as “one of the greatest” wartime leaders and Netanyahu called Trump Israel's "greatest friend" ever in the White House.
At the Knesset, Trump also declared a "new dawn in the Middle East" and said the war was Gaza over — despite challenges ahead in ensuring a lasting peace.
Hamas released the remaining 20 living Israeli hostages on Monday and Israel freed Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire agreement, with emotional scenes playing out in Tel Aviv and Gaza as families reunited.
But many questions remain about what comes next, including to what extent Trump will be personally involved in shaping a post-war Gaza.
Trump said the second phase of his proposed peace plan is in progress, though he didn't provide much detail.
"Well, it started. I mean, it started as far as we’re concerned," Trump said as he sat with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi. "Phase two has started. And, you know, the phases are all a little bit mixed in with each other. You’re gonna start cleaning up. You look at Gaza, it needs a lot of cleanup."
The U.S. president also appeared to set his sights next on Iran, urging the country to use this opportunity to work with the administration on a peace deal.
"We are ready when you are and it will be the best decision that Iran has ever made, and it's going to happen," Trump said during his speech at the Knesset.
Trump reiterated that point as he took reporter questions alongside Egypt's president.
"I think Iran will come along. They've been battered and bruised. You know, they need some help. They have big sanctions, as you know, tremendous sanctions. I'd love to take the sanctions off when they're ready to talk," Trump said.
Source- ABC