PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — During his visit to Haiti today (September 5, 2024), U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken underscored the United States’ unwavering support for Haiti’s ongoing political transition, security enhancement, and economic development. Blinken met with key Haitian leaders, including Prime Minister Dr. Garry Conille and members of the Transitional Presidential Council, to advance the country’s progress towards stability and democracy.
Mr. Blinken praised the establishment of the Transitional Presidential Council and the interim government, emphasizing these as crucial steps towards organizing free and fair elections. He called for the swift creation of a Provisional Electoral Council, which is needed to oversee the election process. The U.S. sees these actions as integral to Haiti’s future, encouraging leaders to continue their efforts toward a democratic transition.
Addressing the challenges of corruption, Blinken commended Haitian authorities for their work in promoting transparency and accountability. These efforts are vital for maintaining public trust in the transitional government. The 71st U.S. Secretary of State also pointed out the U.S.’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for destabilizing actions, referencing recent sanctions against former Haitian President Michel Martelly for his role in facilitating violence and drug trafficking.
Security was another focal point of Blinken’s visit. He highlighted the critical role played by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which is backed by U.S. funding and involves Kenyan personnel working alongside the Haitian National Police (HNP). Blinken noted recent successes, such as the reopening of the airport and the resurgence of economic activity in parts of Port-au-Prince, attributing these improvements to joint operations between the MSS and HNP in reclaiming control from gangs.
The U.S. has already contributed over $300 million in aid to the MSS mission, along with $200 million since 2021 to support the Haitian police in training and equipping anti-gang units. Blinken also stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in the fight against gangs to restore security for the Haitian people.
During his remarks, Blinken announced an additional $45 million in humanitarian aid for Haiti, bringing the U.S.’s total humanitarian assistance to over $210 million in 2024. This aid will focus on providing essential services, such as food, water, sanitation, and healthcare, to support 1.5 million Haitians. The U.S. remains the largest provider of humanitarian assistance to Haiti, helping alleviate the hardships faced by the Haitian population.
The Secretary of State emphasized the long-term economic strategy the U.S. has in place to support Haiti’s development. Central to this effort is the HOPE/HELP trade preference program, which plays a pivotal role in bolstering Haiti’s apparel sector—a key driver of the country’s economy. The program, which allows Haitian-produced clothing to be exported to the U.S. duty-free, is set to expire next year, and Blinken highlighted the urgency of renewing the legislation to continue supporting Haitian industries that employ tens of thousands of people.
Blinken urged the international community to increase its financial and personnel contributions to the MSS mission. While countries like Canada, Jamaica, and El Salvador have already pledged support, additional resources are necessary to sustain and expand the mission’s objectives. Blinken announced that he will convene a meeting during the United Nations General Assembly to secure further commitments for Haiti’s security, economic, and humanitarian needs.
From supporting free and fair elections to addressing security and economic challenges, the U.S. remains a steadfast partner in Haiti’s path to recovery. However, Blinken made it clear that more international cooperation is essential to ensure Haiti’s successful transition toward a more secure and prosperous future.
Dessalines Ferdinand, Le Floridien
Note: This article is based on the remarks made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Haiti on September 5, 2024.
Photo credit: Roberto Schmidt/Pool photo via AP
