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Haiti’s government on Thursday denounced recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron as “unacceptable,” following comments he allegedly made about the dismissal of Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille. Haiti’s foreign minister, Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, summoned France’s ambassador to Haiti, Antoine Michon, to formally express the government’s indignation.
During a meeting with the ambassador, Jean-Baptiste described Macron’s remarks as “unfriendly and inappropriate,” demanding a rectification. A letter of protest was also delivered to France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, outlining Haiti’s position.
The controversy arose from a video widely shared in French media, showing Macron during a visit to Rio de Janeiro after the G20 summit in Brazil. In the footage, Macron reportedly criticized the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) for removing Conille, calling the former prime minister “fantastic” and “brilliant.”
France’s ambassador acknowledged the remarks as “unfortunate” and explained that they were made “in a very specific context.” However, Haiti’s government views the comments as a breach of diplomatic etiquette, particularly during a sensitive period of political transition in the Caribbean nation.
The French Embassy in Haiti emphasized France’s commitment to supporting Haiti, particularly in efforts to restore security and facilitate elections. “France remains steadfast in its partnership with Haiti and its people, focusing on advancing the transition agenda,” Ambassador Michon reportedly assured during the meeting.
The controversy adds a new layer to Haiti-France relations, which have long been shaped by complex historical and political dynamics. Macron’s criticism of the CPT follows Conille’s dismissal by the transitional council, a decision that has sparked debate within Haiti about the direction of the country’s governance.
Haiti is currently navigating a difficult political landscape marked by insecurity, gang violence, and preparations for long-overdue elections. The transitional government, tasked with stabilizing the country, has faced criticism from both domestic and international observers for its effectiveness.
Macron’s remarks touched on these challenges, pointing to broader frustrations with Haiti’s leadership. However, Haitian officials argue that such statements undermine the nation’s sovereignty and its efforts to manage its own political affairs.
Foreign Minister Jean-Baptiste framed the incident as an opportunity to emphasize the need for respectful and constructive engagement between Haiti and its international partners. “Haitian diplomacy must protect our citizens and foster equitable dialogue with other nations,” Jean-Baptiste stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring sovereignty in its foreign relations.
The letter of protest delivered to France’s foreign ministry calls for a re-evaluation of the comments and for France to reaffirm its support for Haiti during this critical juncture. Observers note that such incidents can strain bilateral relations, but they also provide an opportunity to reset and refocus on shared goals.
As Haiti grapples with political instability and escalating violence, France has pledged to play a supporting role in the country’s transition. Key areas of focus include restoring security, addressing the humanitarian crisis, and ensuring free and fair elections. The latest diplomatic friction highlights the challenges of navigating this partnership while respecting Haiti’s autonomy.
For now, Haiti’s government has made clear that it expects its international allies to engage with respect and to avoid comments that could exacerbate existing tensions. Whether Macron’s remarks will impact broader cooperation between the two countries remains to be seen.
