Haiti Calls on CARICOM to Recognize Its Potential as a Land of Opportunity

As the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government concluded in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Haiti’s President-Counsellor of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), Laurent Saint Cyr, issued a compelling appeal to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to view Haiti not only as a nation in need, but as a strategic partner and a land of opportunity.

Speaking at the closing press conference, Saint Cyr urged CARICOM nations to support Haiti’s economic recovery through targeted investment in key sectors including infrastructure, green energy, innovation, education, cultural tourism, and security – particularly in the country’s northern and southern regions.

His remarks came after a high-level dialogue with CARICOM leaders, during which Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who also serves as the regional bloc’s Chairman, reiterated CARICOM’s deep concern over the ongoing instability in Haiti.

“We continue to be gravely concerned,” Holness said. “CARICOM has been very vocal in its call for international support and has been working closely with Haiti to ensure that its needs and concerns are being addressed.”

During the discussions, Saint Cyr provided an update on the TPC’s efforts to stabilize the country, including progress on strengthening national security, preparing for a constitutional referendum, and organizing general elections scheduled for November 2024.

Emphasizing the importance of regional solidarity, Saint Cyr called for a unified approach to restoring peace and fostering sustainable development in Haiti. “Haiti, today, needs the Region to speak with one voice in defense of security, peace, and sustainable development,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to CARICOM member states that have already contributed personnel to the Multinational Security Support Mission and those providing training for the Haitian National Police. However, he stressed the need for intensified efforts, including increased training, financial aid, logistical support, and technical assistance.

Saint Cyr also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in tackling transnational threats such as the illicit flow of arms and drug trafficking.

“Haiti relies on its friends and international partners, especially within CARICOM, for the restoration of security, the organization of elections, and long-term support for national reconstruction,” he said. “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 concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the TPC’s mission and the country’s readiness to assume its responsibilities, while underscoring that Haiti cannot achieve lasting stability alone.

“I welcome the discussions and the shared consensus that Haiti’s security depends on investments – including foreign direct investment – to address the structural causes of insecurity,” Saint Cyr said. “Haiti remains a land of opportunity.”