U.S. Supports Organization of American States Call to Strengthen Democracy and National Reconciliation in Haiti

The United States joined its partners in the Organization of American States’ Permanent Council today to pass a new resolution on strengthening democracy in Haiti. The resolution calls on the Government of Haiti to implement fully past OAS resolutions and to take further steps to promote a climate of security, strengthen the rule of law and prepare for free and fair legislative and local elections in 2003. It reaffirms and broadens the role of the OAS Special Mission to Haiti in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting dialogue and consensus, and supporting elections. The resolution creates a framework to enable all democratic sectors in Haiti to express themselves and participate in the political process. It supports normalization of economic cooperation between the Government of Haiti and the International Financial Institutions. The United States delegation joined consensus on this resolution, and has committed an additional $500,000 to fund the OAS Special Mission.