April 28, 2025
Colombian President Gustavo Petro concluded a brief yet significant visit to Haiti on the evening of Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Welcomed at the Jacmel airport by Leslie Voltaire, president of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), this meeting marked an important step in strengthening relations between the two nations. Although scheduled for 10 a.m., the Colombian president’s arrival was delayed by nearly six hours, but this did not diminish the importance of this highly symbolic visit.
The discussions took the form of a bilateral council of ministers, bringing together Haitian authorities and members of the Colombian government. According to the Haitian Prime Minister’s Office, this meeting aimed to consolidate cooperation in strategic areas such as economic development, security, energy transition, and environmental issues. “The discussions, conducted in a spirit of constructive dialogue and mutual respect, are part of a dynamic for sustainable partnership,” emphasized the official statement.
For Leslie Voltaire, this cooperation is essential for Haiti, particularly in the fight against armed gangs that threaten the country’s stability. He also expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of this collaboration in key sectors such as education, agriculture, tourism, and culture. “Haiti needs this kind of cooperation with other Latin American countries, especially those liberated by Simon Bolivar,” he said, stressing the importance of strengthening regional ties.
Gustavo Petro’s visit reflects a commitment to regional solidarity and integration of the peoples of the Caribbean and Latin America. Accompanied by several ministers, the Colombian president reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Haiti in its efforts to overcome security and economic challenges. This approach demonstrates a shared will to promote regional stability and address global challenges of our time.
The Haitian government, through the Prime Minister’s Office, welcomed this initiative as a “new momentum for regional cooperation.” This high-level bilateral meeting reflects Haiti’s commitment to active diplomacy, rooted in respect for the principles of sovereignty and mutual cooperation. It also aligns with efforts to meet the legitimate aspirations of the Haitian people to live in peace and prosperity.
Gustavo Petro’s visit to Jacmel, though brief, was marked by significant security arrangements, underscoring the importance of the event. This diplomatic milestone paves the way for future collaborations, particularly in addressing insecurity and fostering Haiti’s sustainable development.
In conclusion, this visit bolsters hopes for renewed cooperation between Haiti and Colombia while highlighting the urgency of concerted action to tackle shared challenges. As Haiti continues to seek solutions to its multiple crises, support from regional partners like Colombia emerges as a key element in building a more stable and prosperous future.
