Albert Ramdin has been elected as the OAS’s first Caribbean Secretary General, effective until 2030. He aims to enhance organizational efficiency and advocate for greater support for Haiti. Suriname’s government celebrates this milestone, with President Chan Santokhi lauding Ramdin’s advisory skills. The appointment may also improve representation for smaller Caribbean states facing significant challenges.
The Organization of American States (OAS) has elected Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname, as its new secretary general for a term extending until 2030. This appointment is significant as it designates Ramdin as the first Caribbean leader of the OAS, succeeding Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro. Ramdin, who has held the position of Suriname’s top diplomat since 2020, previously served two terms as the assistant secretary general of the OAS from 2005 to 2015.
In his new role, Ramdin aims to enhance the efficiency of the organization and has emphasized the necessity of greater support for Haiti amidst its ongoing conflict with armed gangs and minimal international assistance. The government of Suriname noted, “This is the first time in the history of the OAS that a representative from the Caribbean has been elected Secretary General,” highlighting the historic nature of his election.
President Chan Santokhi of Suriname commended Ramdin for his “calm assurance” and trusted advisory skills, underscoring his diplomatic finesse. Although Suriname is geographically in South America, it maintains closer diplomatic affiliations with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), opposing U.S. sanctions on Venezuela and aligning with Guyana in a border dispute over the Esequibo region.
Venezuela announced its intention to withdraw from the OAS in 2017, yet the organization has continued to acknowledge representatives from the Venezuelan political opposition. At present, the country lacks a representative within the OAS. Other CARICOM diplomats expressed optimism that Ramdin’s election could enhance diversity and representation for smaller Caribbean nations facing pressing challenges related to rising debt, gun violence, and climate change.
Albert Ramdin’s election as the first Caribbean Secretary General of the OAS marks a pivotal moment for representation and diversity within the organization. His background and experience position him to address critical issues, particularly regarding Haiti’s plight and broader Caribbean challenges. As Ramdin concurrently retains his role as Foreign Minister until May 25, he is set to navigate both national and regional diplomacy during this transitional period.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
