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Leslie Voltaire, president of Haiti’s Presidential Transition Council (CPT), departed for Europe on Thursday, January 23, to meet with global leaders in an effort to secure greater assistance for Haiti. His itinerary includes meetings with Pope Francis at the Vatican and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
Voltaire is scheduled to meet with Pope Francis on Saturday, January 25. Speaking to Le Nouvelliste prior to his departure, he highlighted the Catholic Church’s pivotal role in education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts across Haiti and Latin America.
“In Haiti and Latin America, the Catholic Church holds significant influence. It provides essential services such as education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid through its charitable organizations,” Voltaire stated. “Given the ongoing crisis in Haiti, I will ask Pope Francis to increase the Church’s investments in these areas, particularly in humanitarian assistance. Over 6 million Haitians are currently facing food insecurity.”
He also emphasized the Church’s connections with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and its potential to rally Latin American churches to support Haiti. Voltaire expressed hope that this visit could strengthen partnerships and mobilize resources to address the country’s urgent needs.
Following his visit to the Vatican, Voltaire will travel to Paris, where he is scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron on January 29. While details of the agenda remain limited, the focus is expected to include discussions on Haiti’s political transition, international cooperation, and strategies for addressing the country’s humanitarian and security challenges.
France has historically played a key role in Haiti’s development and remains an important partner in international efforts to support the Caribbean nation.
His meetings with Pope Francis and President Macron signal a push for stronger international collaboration to alleviate Haiti’s humanitarian crises and reinforce its political and social stability.
Observers hope the diplomatic mission will bring tangible results, particularly in mobilizing aid and fostering partnerships that can address Haiti’s immediate needs while supporting long-term development.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting (Updated January 26, 2025)
During the audience, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of unity, fraternity, and social harmony in Haiti and the wider Americas. The Pope also reiterated his prayers for the Haitian people, urging political reconciliation and collaboration to restore stability and prosperity.
Voltaire presented the Pope with photographic volumes showcasing Haiti’s cultural heritage, while the Pope gifted him a bronze bas-relief entitled “Dialogue Between Generations” and documents reflecting the Vatican’s commitment to peace.
Following the meeting, Voltaire held discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States. The dialogue focused on strengthening Haiti-Vatican relations, addressing the nation’s pressing issues, and emphasizing the Catholic Church’s continued role in promoting education, humanitarian aid, and social justice in Haiti.