Statement by Honourable Prime Minister
The Caribbean Community has demonstrated considerable diplomatic
capacity in formulating the CARICOM Initiative in respect of the ongoing Haitian
political crisis. CARICOM has achieved as well a remarkable sense of unity in its
response to the aftermath of former President Aristide's sudden departure from
office on the 29th of February. These have earned marked respect from sections
of the International Community and the majority of our Caribbean citizens, local
and foreign alike.
In accordance with the principles by which the Community has been
guided, it is essential that our unity of purpose be maintained and that there be
total cohesion on all fronts. Accordingly, Jamaica does not propose to become
engaged in any internal wrangle or diplomatic row.
Once Jamaica received the request from former President Aristide to be
reunited with his two infant children, before proceeding to his chosen destination
for longer-term residence, I accepted that as a region it was our duty to offer
him a place of temporary accommodation within the Caribbean. I was assured
that his visit would be confined to a family reunion, and not be exploited for
political purposes or destabilising the fragile situation in Haiti.
Consistent with the spirit and tenor of the Emergency Meeting of
CARICOM Heads in Kingston on March 2-3, I concluded that the request should
be entertained in accordance with the safeguards to which Mr. Aristide had
agreed.
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Given Jamaica's tradition of providing temporary refuge for political
leaders and other personalities from Haiti and elsewhere, our present leadership
responsibilities in CARICOM, and our renowned capacity for extending hospitality
to families wishing a private reunion within our shores, I proceeded to make the
necessary arrangements for him to be received here. The current interim Prime
Minister of Haiti, Mr. Gerard LaTortue, himself a beneficiary of such temporary
shelter in the past, can certainly attest to Jamaica's fine track record in this
regard.
I immediately instructed the Honourable K.D. Knight, Minister of Foreign
Affairs, to notify all CARI COM Governments on the 11th March, 5 days before Mr.
Aristide's eventual arrival. I requested him to also communicate the decision to
other Governments "who were originally involved in working with CARICOM to
seek a solution to the Haitian crisis". These were done.
It is worthy of note, that since his arrival, there has been no breach by
Mr. Aristide of the undertakings he had given. He has since reassured me of his
determination to honour his commitments in full.
At the Inter-Sessional Meeting in St. Kitts next week, we will be engaged
in a thorough discussion on all aspects pertaining to the situation in Haiti. As the
outgoing Chairman of CARICOM, I am prepared to give a full report on my
stewardship during this extended period in office, and am content to abide by
the judgment of my peers.
March 18, 2004
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UWI LIBRARIES
