WASHINGTON, DC –
Four years after the earthquake which devastated Haiti, the leadership of the Organization of American States (OAS) says the nation has become a place of perseverance, and opportunity.
Noting the anniversary of the tragedy that crippled the Caribbean nation four years ago on January 10, 2010, the Secretary General of the OAS, Jose Miguel Insulza, and the Assistant Secretary General of the OAS and Chair of the Group of Friends of Haiti and the Haiti Task Force Albert Ramdin, described the progress in Haiti as “concrete” and “inspiring.”
“We have seen the government and people of Haiti persevere, work through issues, find opportunities and secure results,” said Secretary General Insulza. “Today, although much remains to be done, Haiti can demonstrate concrete results and the journey is inspiring,” added the OAS leader.
Working with the government of Haiti, private sector agencies, international partners, member states and observers, the OAS has provided technical support to the country in areas ranging from trade facilitation and business development to tourism and education, among other areas.
According to OAS Assistant Secretary General Ramdin, “The government must be commended for the progress made. They have worked with a wide range of partners internationally, sub-regionally and locally and four years later business and development interests in Haiti have increased, education and training opportunities have been expanded, and in concrete terms, more than 1.3 million Haitians have been moved out of tent camps and into safer housing.”
“The work continues for everyone. There is a long road ahead for Haiti, but progress always starts with a single step,” added Assistant Secretary General Ramdin.
Both Secretary General Insulza and Assistant Secretary General Ramdin say political stability, good governance and democracy will contribute to continued growth in Haiti.
“In this regard, I am encouraged by the steps taken by the government, the legislative organs and other stakeholders to hold overdue senatorial and local elections as soon as possible. The OAS stands ready to assist and support the electoral process,” concluded Secretary General Insulza.
