Albert Ramdin has been appointed Secretary-General of the OAS, becoming the first Caribbean diplomat to hold this position. With extensive diplomatic experience, he aims to tackle critical regional issues, receiving unanimous support from CARICOM and various South American nations. His election signifies a commitment to democracy and collaboration across the Americas.
Albert Ramdin, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, has been appointed as the first Caribbean diplomat to lead the Organization of American States (OAS), succeeding Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro. Ramdin previously served as assistant secretary-general from 2005 to 2015 and has been Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2020, a position he will maintain until May 25, 2023. His election to the five-year term was confirmed at the 56th Special Session of the OAS General Assembly with unanimous support from the 14-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and additional endorsements from several South American countries.
Ramdin’s contender, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, withdrew from the race after failing to obtain support from the U.S. administration, which has shown skepticism towards the OAS’s role in conflict resolution. Ramdin now faces significant challenges, including addressing ongoing crises in Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, amidst fluctuating perceptions of the OAS.
Suriname maintains strong diplomatic ties with the Caribbean, being a member of CARICOM, which includes former British colonies and Haiti. Ramdin’s election is heralded as a historic moment, emphasizing a commitment to shared democratic values across the Americas. Suriname’s finance minister stated that this achievement reflects a milestone in OAS history and showcases the Caribbean’s contribution to regional stability and governance.
As part of his campaign, Ramdin highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration and the OAS’s engagement in various pressing issues such as migration, crime, and COVID-19 recovery. The Caribbean Community’s foreign ministers expressed their confidence in Ramdin’s capabilities, recognizing his extensive experience in foreign diplomacy as a foundation for strong leadership within the OAS. They asserted that his expertise would navigate complex regional challenges and contribute to a more stable and prosperous hemisphere.
Albert Ramdin’s election as the new Secretary-General of the OAS marks a significant achievement for the Caribbean, reflecting unity among member states in their commitment to democracy and regional cooperation. His extensive diplomatic experience positions him well to address pressing issues facing the region. The confidence in Ramdin’s leadership, bolstered by strong support from CARICOM and South American allies, suggests a hopeful and collaborative approach to future challenges in the hemisphere.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
