December 22, 2024
On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship, Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, presided over a formal ceremony marking the protocol greetings of the Diplomatic Corps accredited in Haiti. This official meeting, held in the heart of Port-au-Prince, provided the Minister with an opportunity to present his vision and priorities during a complex transitional period for the country.
In his opening remarks, the Minister warmly thanked the heads of diplomatic missions and representatives of international and consular organizations for their presence. He emphasized the importance of this initial formal contact to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations. Jean-Baptiste highlighted his extensive experience within the ministry, expressing his awareness of the challenges ahead in repositioning Haiti on the international stage.
The restoration of security and the organization of general elections in 2025 were underscored as key priorities of the transition. The Minister outlined ongoing efforts to restore public order, a prerequisite for Haiti’s economic and social recovery. While commending the support of certain international organizations, he expressed his desire for the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) to evolve into a UN mission to enhance efforts against banditry and crime.
On the institutional front, Jean-Baptiste discussed progress within the Provisional Electoral Council and the Commission for Constitutional Reform, both critical to ensuring a successful democratic transition. He called on the international community to actively support these initiatives while reaffirming the government’s commitment to meeting deadlines, including the presidential election scheduled for late 2025.
The Minister concluded with a passionate appeal for international solidarity. He urged the diplomats and representatives present to act as advocates for Haiti on the global stage, reminding them that the country, currently in crisis, aspires to a future of peace and sustainable development. The ceremony, marked by cordial exchanges, signals the beginning of a new phase of collaboration between Haiti and its international partners.