President-Counsellor of the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), His Excellency Laurent Saint Cyr, has called on CARICOM to embrace Haiti as a land of opportunity.
He invited partners to support economic recovery in key sectors such as infrastructure, the green economy, innovation, education and training, cultural tourism, and security, particularly in the greater north and greater south.
At the closing press conference on 8 July, following the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government in Montego Bay, Jamaica, both the Chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica, and the President-Counsellor highlighted the critical issues and opportunities facing Haiti.
Prime Minister Holness expressed CARICOM’s deep concern over the ongoing situation in the country, stating,
“We continue to be gravely concerned. CARICOM has been very vocal in its call for international support and has been working with Haiti to ensure that its needs and concerns are being addressed.”
He informed the media that in their “detailed discussion” with the President-Counsellor, Heads of Government were apprised of the work of the Council towards strengthening security, holding a referendum on the reform of Haiti’s constitution, and elections in November.
Mr. Saint Cyr outlined the factors necessary to secure a safe and sustainable future in his country, stating,
“Haiti, today, needs the Region to speak with one voice in defence of security, peace, and sustainable development.”
He expressed gratitude to the countries that have already contributed personnel to the Multinational Security Support Mission and those offering training for the Haitian National Police.
At the same time, he pleaded for a redoubling of efforts to restore peace and security in Haiti through training, financial assistance, logistical, and technical support.
Mr. Saint Cyr said that Haiti is also counting on the Community to intensify advocacy with other regional and international partners for rigorous regional cooperation to control the illicit flow of arms and ammunition and combat drug trafficking.
“Haiti relies on its friends and international partners, especially within CARICOM, for the restoration of security, the organisation of elections, and long-term support for national reconstruction. It is together through a united front of coherent sustainable and solidaristic actions that we will be able to face this crisis and deliver on the major priorities of Haiti’s transition,” he stated.
“I welcome the discussions and the shared consensus that Haiti’s security depends on investments including foreign direct investment to address structural causes on insecurity. Haiti remains a land of opportunity,” he added.
Mr. Saint Cyr reaffirmed his commitment to working alongside his colleagues at the TPC toward a successful transition, noting that Haiti is ready to fully assume its responsibilities, but it will not succeed alone.
