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On Wednesday, Colombian President Gustavo Petro arrived in Jacmel, Haiti, for a historic visit to deepen ties between the two nations. Greeted by crowds and Haitian leaders, Petro’s arrival was marked by warm receptions and significant diplomatic engagements.
His visit carried a strong message of reconciliation and solidarity. Petro directly addressed the involvement of Colombian mercenaries in the 2021 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse. “I am here to ask for forgiveness,” Petro said. “These Colombians, mercenaries with dark hearts, do not represent the people of Colombia. We believe in life, not in death.”
Petro used the occasion to highlight the deep historical connection between Haiti and Colombia. He paid tribute to Haiti’s support for Simón Bolívar during South America’s independence struggles, recalling Haiti’s pivotal role in aiding Bolívar with resources, men, and moral support.
“Haiti inspired one of the most profound revolutions in history,” Petro said, referring to the Haitian Revolution. He acknowledged that Haiti’s fight for freedom resonated across continents, influencing liberation movements in Latin America, Africa, and beyond.
Petro also visited Simón Bolívar’s former residence in Jacmel, where Bolívar prepared for his liberation campaigns. Together with Haitian leader Leslie Voltaire, Petro unveiled busts of Bolívar and Alexandre Pétion, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations.
During his visit, Petro and Voltaire signed a bilateral cooperation agreement focusing on trade, education, security, and humanitarian aid. The agreement builds on progress from a December 2024 meeting in Riohacha, Colombia, where both governments outlined strategies to combat shared challenges such as illegal arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and social inequities.
Key agreements included commitments to establishing joint police patrols to address maritime smuggling routes and advancing agricultural and food security initiatives. Petro emphasized that the cooperation reflects a “South-South solidarity” approach, prioritizing mutual support among developing nations.
Petro’s visit to Jacmel was met with admiration and hope. The city was decorated with Colombian flags and cultural displays, including traditional rara bands and papier-mâché masks, showcasing the vibrancy of Haitian hospitality.
The Colombian president’s remarks reflected both gratitude and sorrow. “Haiti gave us our freedom,” he said. “Your revolution inspired ours, and even our flag reflects the colors of your own. Today, I am here to repay that debt with cooperation and friendship.”
Addressing the painful recent history, Petro again apologized for the involvement of Colombians in Moïse’s assassination. “To the Haitian people, I ask for your forgiveness. Those responsible do not represent the values of Colombia,” he reiterated.
Petro’s visit concluded with a joint press conference at Jacmel’s wharf. Voltaire thanked Petro for prioritizing Haiti despite Colombia’s own challenges, including internal conflicts. “This visit is a testament to the strength of our friendship and the potential for deeper cooperation,” Voltaire said.
The visit reflected the strong historical and cultural connections between Haiti and Colombia while paving the way for closer diplomatic and economic cooperation. It demonstrated a shared commitment to regional solidarity and the pursuit of peace and stability.
