President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi of Suriname called on the international community to intensify support for Haiti amid ongoing instability. He emphasized that “Haiti fatigue” is unacceptable and lauded CARICOM’s efforts in establishing a transitional government. Santokhi also urged the lifting of the U.S. embargo on Cuba and highlighted the need for small nations to receive support for digital transformation and economic reform. Suriname pledged assistance to the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti and expressed anticipation for meaningful outcomes at the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference.
On Wednesday, Suriname’s President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi urged the international community to increase its support for Haiti, emphasizing that “Haiti fatigue” is not a viable stance. His comments came during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he acknowledged the crucial role of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in supporting stability in Haiti. President Santokhi highlighted the installation of a transitional government aimed at restoring governance in the nation, which has faced turmoil since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7, 2021. In light of escalating violence from criminal gangs against the interim government, the United Nations Security Council’s recent initiative for a Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission was welcomed. He stated, “We cannot leave Haiti and its people alone and behind. Haiti fatigue is not an option.” Suriname is prepared to offer its contribution to the MSS and called for a unified and transparent approach regarding international initiatives to aid Haiti. In addition to advocating for Haiti, President Santokhi addressed the ongoing economic embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba, recommending that lifting such restrictions is crucial to fostering cooperation on global issues, including climate change and social inequality. He underscored the necessity for small nations to receive support for digital transformation, allowing them to more fully participate in the global economy. Reflecting on Suriname’s economic landscape, he mentioned recent financial reforms implemented by his government since taking office in July 2020. Despite facing significant challenges, he noted improvements in macroeconomic stability and social safety nets, ultimately striving to include all demographics in the country’s economic recovery. Looking ahead, President Santokhi expressed anticipation for the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) in November 2024, urging that it should lead to substantial outcomes rather than mere discussions that fail to yield results.
Haiti has been in a state of political instability since the murder of its president in July 2021 and has faced increasing violence, primarily due to the rise of criminal gangs attempting to leverage the political vacuum. The introduction of a transitional government was necessitated by these ongoing crises, and there is a strong call from regional powers, such as Suriname, for enhanced international support to restore order and facilitate governance. The discussion surrounding the economic embargo on Cuba highlights broader themes of international cooperation and the need for small nations to be included in global economic initiatives, particularly as issues like climate change and social inequalities persist.
In conclusion, President Santokhi’s address to the UNGA accentuated the imperative need for the international community to rally behind Haiti during its ongoing struggles. His request for support extends not only to Haiti but also emphasizes the importance of lifting sanctions against Cuba and enhancing global cooperation for issues affecting smaller nations, especially regarding economic reforms and digital advancements. Suriname’s commitment to contributing to Haiti’s recovery, along with its own economic transformation, underscores the interconnected nature of regional stability and development.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
