PM Skerrit Calls for China’s Active Support in Stabilizing Haiti Amidst Growing Crisis

During the 8th session of consultations between China and Caribbean countries, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica and chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) made an urgent plea. He requested China to use its United Nations Security Council veto power in favor of CARICOM’s proposal: deploying an international security force in Haiti to restore stability. The Dominican leader reaffirmed that mitigating the turmoil in Haiti remains his top priority, as the nation is currently in the throes of a dire security and humanitarian crisis.

Skerrit seeks China’s cooperation and support in advancing a Security Council resolution aimed at addressing Haiti’s crisis. He recognized China’s vital contributions as the second-largest donor to the UN Security Council’s peacekeeping force and acknowledged their steadfast support for resolutions concerning Haiti, including the deployment of peacekeeping personnel.

The gravity of the situation in Haiti is underlined by worsening conditions characterized by widespread hunger, gang violence, school closures, and an ongoing cholera epidemic. Organizations like Plan International indicate that children, particularly girls, are at severe risk due to the increasing cost of living amidst the political crisis.

During the same consultation, China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Hua Chunying addressed the Haiti crisis. She stated that the Chinese government is well aware of the region’s concerns and expressed the desire to collaborate to restore Haiti’s stability. Similarly, Cai Wei, Director-General of the Foreign Ministry’s Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs, stated China’s eagerness to assist Haiti, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The urgent need for action is underscored by warnings from the World Food Programme, which estimates nearly half of Haiti’s population is facing acute hunger. Prime Minister Skerrit remains hopeful that China will provide necessary support, urging that “Haiti needs all of us.” As CARICOM takes the lead in finding solutions for Haiti, he anticipates continued collaboration with China and other global partners.

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