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As Jacmel prepares to host Colombian President Gustavo Petro on January 22, 2025, security has taken center stage in this historic visit. The Haitian National Police (PNH) has significantly reinforced its presence in the region, deploying specialized units to ensure the safety of the president, his delegation, and the public.
The visit comes amid heightened global attention, as both nations face critical domestic challenges—Haiti grappling with gang violence and Colombia reeling from escalating internal conflicts.
In anticipation of President Petro’s arrival, the PNH has bolstered its operations in the southeastern department. Additional officers from specialized units have been deployed to Jacmel to support local police forces already on the ground. This coordinated effort aims to provide a secure environment for the visit, which is expected to draw significant public attention.
These preparations are not limited to personnel deployment. Jacmel’s airport runway was extended to accommodate international flights, allowing a Colombian military aircraft to land—a testament to the city’s enhanced logistical readiness.
Jacmel has undergone a transformation ahead of the visit. Repairs and upgrades, funded by a 500-million-gourde allocation from Haiti’s Treasury, include airport expansion, road improvements, and renovations to the city hall and key tourist sites. Local officials have also restored electricity and launched a sanitation campaign that created jobs and gave the city a fresh look.
President Petro’s visit occurs against the backdrop of a violent surge in Colombia. Just days ago, over 100 lives were lost in clashes involving armed groups, displacing thousands. Despite this crisis, Petro’s decision to maintain his commitment to Haiti sends a strong message about the importance of diplomacy and regional solidarity.
The visit will focus on key areas of collaboration, including trade, education, and security. A joint Council of Ministers meeting will bring together nine ministers from each country to finalize agreements aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.
The visit also draws attention to the case of 17 Colombians detained in Haiti for their alleged role in the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse. Haitian officials clarified that the detainees’ legal proceedings are unrelated to Petro’s visit. “The justice system operates independently of diplomatic engagements,” the Minister of Culture and Communication, Patrick Delatour, emphasized.
Meanwhile, the detainees’ defense lawyer continues to advocate for their release, claiming innocence and procedural flaws in their arrest. The issue remains a contentious backdrop to an otherwise historic diplomatic engagement.
As Jacmel welcomes President Petro, the city stands as a reminder of Haiti’s enduring influence in regional history. The visit represents an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties and address pressing issues, such as regional security, economic development, and humanitarian cooperation.
