Albert Ramdin has been elected as the new Secretary General of the OAS, marking the first time a Caribbean leader has held this position. He aims to enhance the OAS’s efficiency and support for troubled regions such as Haiti. This election is celebrated as a significant milestone for Caribbean representation in international diplomacy.
On Monday, Surinamese Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin was elected as the new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), serving through 2030. His election is historic as he becomes the first leader from the Caribbean to hold this position, succeeding Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro. Ramdin, 66, has been Suriname’s chief diplomat since 2020 and previously served two terms as the OAS’ assistant secretary general from 2005 to 2015.
Throughout his career, Ramdin has advocated for enhancing the OAS’s efficiency and improving its support for Haiti amid ongoing violence from armed gangs. The government of Suriname emphasized the significance of Ramdin’s election, noting that it marks a milestone in OAS history by electing a Caribbean representative as Secretary General.
President Chan Santokhi of Suriname commended Ramdin for his diplomatic skill and reliable guidance. Although Suriname geographically belongs to South America, its foreign policy aligns more closely with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The nation has taken a stand against U.S. sanctions on Venezuela while expressing solidarity with Guyana regarding the territorial dispute over Esequibo.
Since Venezuela announced its intent in 2017 to withdraw from the OAS, the organization has continued to acknowledge representatives of Venezuela’s opposition, albeit currently lacking an official representative from the Venezuelan government. Diplomats from CARICOM nations have voiced optimism that Ramdin’s election will enhance diversity and representation for smaller Caribbean nations as they tackle pressing issues like high debt, violence, and climate change.
Ramdin will also retain his position as foreign minister until May 25, when Almagro’s term concludes and in conjunction with Suriname’s scheduled national elections.
In conclusion, Albert Ramdin’s election as the OAS Secretary General represents a significant milestone for Caribbean representation in the organization. His commitment to enhancing organizational efficiency and supporting nations like Haiti showcases his diplomatic priorities. Additionally, Ramdin’s concurrent service as Suriname’s foreign minister reflects the nation’s strategic diplomatic positions, particularly concerning regional issues. His leadership may foster greater diversity and effective responses to challenges faced by smaller Caribbean nations.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
