12265: OAS endorses immediate resumption of political talks in Haiti (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: MKarshan@aol.com

Press Release
June 4, 2002

Organization of American States Endorses
Immediate Resumption of Political Talks in Haiti

Bridgetown, Barbados (June 4) ---The Organization of American States (OAS) passed a resolution today supporting an end to the political impasse in Haiti and urging the international community to begin discussions regarding the resumption of economic assistance from the international financial institutions.  During the 32nd General Assembly of the OAS being held in Bridgetown, Barbados, the Inter-American body unanimously called for an immediate resumption of the negotiations between the Government of Haiti, civil society, and all relevant political parties without pre-conditions and with the aim of seeking a conclusion to the talks in the near future.  The resolution also recognizes the dire need for humanitarian and economic assistance to alleviate economic hardship and to promote long-term growth in Haiti.

During a special session on the “Situation in Haiti”, Haitian Foreign Minister Joseph P. Antonio reiterated the Government’s position to restart the political negotiations immediately and reemphasized that Haiti’s precarious economic situation was made worse by the lack of international economic and humanitarian aid now being withheld at the international financial institutions. “The Government of Haiti is determined to bring the negotiations to a successful conclusion as soon as possible.  It is our sincere hope that all parties will make a similar commitment to resume the talks when the next OAS special mission, led by the Assistant Secretary General Einuadi, arrives in Haiti on June 10, 2002.”

The resolution also commends the Government of Haiti for its assistance with the OAS missions and compliance with previous resolutions adopted by the OAS Permanent Council and General Assembly over the past year.  “The Government of Haiti will continue to be as helpful as possible to ensure the successful mission of the OAS,” said Minister Antonio.

In the midst of the debate on the resolution, several Member States from the Caribbean Community insisted on the immediate resumption of the international assistance to Haiti as a means to help the nation address current economic challenges and to help the government plan and support a credible electoral process, which is one aspect of the political negotiations.  Other nations committed to remain engaged in support of the negotiations process and suggested that they would assist in underwriting efforts to implement an eventual agreement, particularly in the area of electoral support.

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