The CARICOM Caucus of Ambassadors at the Organization of American States (OAS) has reiterated its unanimous endorsement of Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business, and International Cooperation, Albert Ramdin, as the CARICOM candidate for Secretary-General of the OAS.
The election is set for March 10, 2025.
Minister Ramdin, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience addressing the critical challenges of governance, development, human rights, democracy, and security, is widely regarded as a transformative leader. His track record includes navigating the complex realities facing governments in Latin America and the Caribbean, making him uniquely suited to lead the OAS at a time of pressing regional challenges.
As part of his vision for the organization, Minister Ramdin has pledged to reform the OAS in collaboration with member states, tackling financial and administrative obstacles while enhancing its effectiveness and relevance. His leadership would emphasize building consensus among member states, bridging divisions, and fostering unified responses to shared challenges across the Western Hemisphere.
CARICOM, which represents 44 percent of the OAS membership, has yet to see a Secretary-General emerge from the Caribbean. Minister Ramdin’s election would mark a historic milestone, recognizing the Caribbean’s contributions while ensuring that the OAS is led by someone with the vision and expertise to address the diverse needs of its member states.
“This is a pivotal opportunity to strengthen the OAS and promote greater unity and cooperation in the hemisphere,” the CARICOM Caucus of Ambassadors said in a statement. “Minister Ramdin’s election would benefit all member states and reinvigorate the organization.”
Minister Ramdin’s candidacy has received official backing from CARICOM heads of government, initially endorsed during the 46th regular meeting in February 2024 and reaffirmed by the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) in May 2024. This united support underscores CARICOM’s commitment to advancing effective leadership within the OAS.
The caucus has called on all OAS member states to support Minister Ramdin, emphasizing the historic and strategic importance of his leadership at this critical juncture for the region.
