Kingston, 12 March 2024 (TDI): US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Jamaica on March 11, 2024, to attend a high-level Meeting on Haiti. During his visit, he met with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness to discuss support for the Haitian people.
The 48th regular meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held on 25 February 2024. The meeting included president and members of CARICOM who played a significant role in Haiti-led Solutions to the conflict.
Secretary Blinken said, “Today in Jamaica, Prime Minister Holiness and I discussed crucial international support for the people of Haiti, Including the Multinational Security Support mission. Grateful for Jamaica’s continued leadership and partnership in strengthening security in the Caribbean countries”.
Moreover, He restated the US support in creating a partnership between Haitian stakeholders and CARICOM leaders to hasten a political transition. The partnership would involve the formation of an independent presidential college with broad-based representation.
Lastly, both counterparts committed to supporting the Caribbean region with a shared priority of the US-Jamaica.
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Secretary Blinken appreciates the President of CARICOM, the Prime Minister of Jamaica, and other member states for participating in this meeting for the support of Haiti people in this crucial time.
Additionally, Secretary Blinken said, “Today I am in Jamaica to meet with leaders of the Caribbean region on the political and security crisis in Haiti. It is critical we work together to support the Haitian people, curb escalating violence and unrest, and expedite a political transition”.
“Haitians cannot wait any longer for a path to security, stability, and democracy. The United States and CARICOM support a clear political transition plan, led by trusted representatives of Haitian society,” Bliken added.
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Secretary Blinken gave his three points: First, immediately take steps to meet with Haitian people. Second, enable the deployment of MSS missions. Last, work on the Haitian National Police so they conduct free and fair democratic elections for the civilians of Haiti.
According to reports, “Secretary Blinken proclaimed that the United States Department of Defense is doubling its approved support for the mission from $100 million to $200 million, and that brings the total US support to $300 million for this effort”.
Furthermore, he said, “I am also announcing additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Haiti: $33 million to further support their health and food security”.
At last, he said, CARICOM, the US, and other partners are committed to helping Haitian people in this crucial time when they are undergoing enormous suffering. So, they will live peacefully and freely.
