Friday, the President Martelly, fter his visit to Guyana, arrived on an official visit in Suriname where he was received by his counterpart, Désiré Bouterse, with military honors.

The two Heads of State had a successful meeting during which it was discussed traceability, cooperation in the area of ​​rice production, Haiti's participation in CARIFESTA 2013, migration issues, the movement of Haitians, the opening of a Consulate of Haiti in Paramaribo.

With regard to the traceability system of agricultural products at the Caribbean Common Market, the Presidents Martelly and Bouterse pledged to work towards this project.

Concerning the CARIFESTA (Caribbean Festival of Arts), the President Martelly confirmed the participation of Haiti in this great cultural event scheduled from 16 to 25 August 2013 in Suriname. Haitian music, any tendency confused, gastronomy, crafts, dance and other cultural Haitian will be highlighted at this event which will bring together the potential of all the countries of the region.

In addition, the President expressed his deep concern about of travel of Haitian nationals in Suriname, including those holders of diplomatic and official passports. Indeed, despite two decisions taken by the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Community (2008), followed by the Conference of Heads of State and Government (2010), this category of Haitians still can not travel to Suriname without a visa.

The President Bouterse gave instructions so that this problem is resolved in the shortest possible time. He also promised to regularize the situation of Haitian nationals living illegally in Suriname. Chancelleries of both countries have agreed to work together and the President Martelly pledged to reopen soon the Consulate of Haiti in Suriname, to better assist and serve thousands of Haitians living in this country.

In addition, an airline of Suriname, has reiterated its desire to ensure the route Paramaribo-Port-au-Prince-Miami and will submit a technical dossier shortly.

Finally, the President of the Republic, invited his counterpart from Suriname to attend the summit of the ACS, which will take place April 23 to 26, 2013 in Port-au-Prince on the theme: "For a Renewal of the Founder vision of the AEC : Let us work for a strong and unified Caribbean".

HL/ HaitiLibre