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In a historic meeting on January 22, 2024, Leslie Voltaire, president of Haiti’s Presidential Transition Council, welcomed Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his delegation to discuss a wide range of collaborative initiatives aimed at addressing Haiti’s multidimensional crises and strengthening ties between the two nations.
This high-profile meeting, rooted in shared historical bonds and mutual respect, resulted in a comprehensive joint declaration outlining key areas of cooperation, including agriculture, environment, security, culture, trade, and humanitarian aid.
Strengthening Agricultural Partnerships
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ministries of agriculture of both nations highlights plans for increased collaboration in food security and rural development. Colombia committed to sharing technical expertise and innovations to strengthen Haiti’s agricultural sector, enhance seed conservation, and support food processing and sustainable farming practices.
President Petro emphasized Colombia’s willingness to help Haiti bolster its capacity to address food insecurity, which affects millions of Haitians, particularly in rural areas. Training programs, technical exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives will play central roles in this effort.
Environmental and Climate Cooperation
In line with Haiti’s priorities, the two nations also signed a key environmental agreement. This MoU focuses on projects related to ecological restoration, renewable energy, water resource management, and climate resilience. Special attention will be given to the binational management of natural resources, such as the shared water basin of the Massacre River.
President Petro highlighted the environmental challenges faced by both countries and reaffirmed Colombia’s support for sustainable development initiatives in Haiti.
Advancing Security and Defense
Recognizing shared concerns over transnational crimes, the leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in security and defense. Colombia pledged to provide training and technical support to Haiti’s law enforcement and public security forces. This includes training in crime investigation, urban and rural tactical operations, and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Haiti’s Leslie Voltaire noted the importance of these initiatives in improving public safety and combating organized crime, which continues to challenge the country’s stability. Petro also encouraged Haiti to continue engaging with AMERIPOL, a regional security organization, to address broader threats such as cybercrime and drug trafficking.
Cultural and Historical Bonds
Cultural collaboration was a key highlight of the visit, as both leaders commemorated the historic alliance between Haiti’s Alexandre Pétion and Colombia’s Simón Bolívar. The MoU on cultural exchange aims to deepen mutual understanding through shared participation in arts, music, literature, and heritage preservation.
The declaration also acknowledged Haiti’s pivotal role in supporting Bolívar’s liberation campaigns in Latin America, emphasizing the debt of gratitude owed by Colombia to Haiti.
Humanitarian Aid and Economic Development
In response to Haiti’s pressing humanitarian needs, Petro reaffirmed Colombia’s commitment to providing aid through its International Cooperation Fund. This includes financial assistance, food aid, and logistical support for displaced populations and repatriated citizens.
On the economic front, both nations committed to fostering trade and investment partnerships. Voltaire and Petro tasked their respective commerce ministries with exploring opportunities to strengthen bilateral trade, improve market access, and encourage tourism. Special attention will be given to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises and facilitating the exchange of goods and services.
Historical Aspect of the Visit
The meeting in Jacmel, known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, marked a milestone in Haitian-Colombian relations. Both leaders emphasized the symbolic importance of this collaboration, rooted in the shared legacy of liberation and solidarity.
President Petro expressed gratitude for Haiti’s hospitality and reaffirmed Colombia’s dedication to supporting Haiti through its ongoing political and economic challenges. Leslie Voltaire echoed this sentiment, calling the visit “a testament to the mutual commitment of both nations to building a future of shared progress and prosperity.”
The agreements signed during the meeting will require consistent follow-through to achieve tangible results. Both nations have expressed optimism about the opportunities created by this historic partnership.
