OAS Secretary General to Lead Mission to Haiti for International Aid Coordination

A high-level delegation from the Organization of American States (OAS), led by Secretary General Albert Ramdin, is set to visit Haiti from August 16 to 19. The mission's primary objective is to convert international expressions of solidarity into tangible support aimed at addressing the Caribbean nation's severe crisis.

The inter-American mission will include Carla Barnett, Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), alongside representatives from the United Nations, the Pan American Health Organization, the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank. The OAS emphasized that this visit occurs at a critical juncture for Haiti, as the country prepares for presidential and legislative elections scheduled for December 13.

According to the Washington-based organization, the mission seeks to enhance coordination and provide concrete assistance aligned with priorities identified by Haitians themselves. "Our purpose in coming together to Haiti is not simply to show solidarity, but to continue strengthening coordination and help achieve results in security, elections, institutional strengthening, humanitarian needs, and long-term development," stated Secretary General Ramdin.

During his visit, Ramdin plans to meet with Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Foreign Minister Raina Forbin, and other government, electoral, and police officials. He is also expected to sign a cooperation agreement with Japan to foster economic and social development in Haiti. Additionally, a pact with the Brazilian NGO Viva Rio is anticipated to establish a framework for collaboration on social inclusion, cohesion, and community development initiatives.

The agenda also includes a visit to the headquarters of the UN-approved Gang Suppression Force (GSF), which combats armed gangs in Haiti, and meetings with UN mission leaders. The mission will conclude with consultations to identify areas for follow-up and cooperation to support Haiti's transition, recovery, and long-term development. Haiti is currently grappling with a multidimensional crisis characterized by gang control, extreme violence, mass displacement, and institutional collapse, leaving millions in need of humanitarian aid.

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Nuestro propósito al venir juntos a Haití no es simplemente demostrar solidaridad, sino continuar fortaleciendo la coordinación y ayudar a lograr resultados en materia de seguridad, elecciones, fortalecimiento institucional, necesidades humanitarias y desarrollo a largo plazo.