Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says Trinidad and Tobago will continue to push for international attention on Haiti when the country takes its seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Persad-Bissessar described the situation in Haiti as a matter of particular concern for Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and the wider international community.
The Prime Minister said Trinidad and Tobago fully supports international efforts aimed at restoring security and stability in Haiti.
However, she stressed that Haiti’s political future must ultimately be led and owned by the Haitian people.
Persad-Bissessar said security assistance is necessary but warned that security measures alone will not provide lasting stability.
She said Haiti also requires functioning institutions, economic opportunities and a credible political process.
The Prime Minister said Trinidad and Tobago will continue bringing attention to Haiti and the wider security concerns affecting the Caribbean during its time on the Security Council.
She said the country will work alongside CARICOM and other international partners in pursuit of practical and sustainable solutions.
Haiti continues to face a severe security crisis involving heavily armed gangs, displacement and pressure on state institutions.
For Trinidad and Tobago, the crisis is also part of a wider regional discussion surrounding organised crime, illegal firearms, narcotics trafficking and security throughout the Caribbean.
