Albert Ramdin Elected as First Caribbean Secretary General of OAS

Albert Ramdin, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, has been elected as the OAS’s first Caribbean Secretary General, serving until 2030. His historic election highlights the importance of Caribbean representation within the organization. Ramdin aims to improve efficiency in the OAS and support Haiti amid ongoing conflicts, while addressing the challenges faced by smaller Caribbean nations.

On Monday, the Organization of American States (OAS) elected Albert Ramdin, the Surinamese Foreign Minister, as its new Secretary General, serving until 2030. This election not only follows the term of Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro but also marks the first time a representative from the Caribbean has held this position.

Albert Ramdin, 66, has been serving as Suriname’s chief diplomat since 2020, previously holding the position of assistant secretary general at the OAS for two consecutive terms from 2005 to 2015. Throughout his tenure, he has emphasized the necessity for improved efficiency within the organization and has called for enhanced support for Haiti, which is currently grappling with violent conflicts amid limited international assistance.

The Surinamese government celebrated this historic election, highlighting, “This is the first time in the history of the OAS that a representative from the Caribbean has been elected Secretary General.” President Chan Santokhi commended Ramdin’s calm expertise and reputation as a trusted diplomat, reflecting a sense of national pride in his achievement.

Despite being geographically part of South America, Suriname maintains strong diplomatic ties with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and has voiced opposition to U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. The nation has also supported its neighbor, Guyana, in an ongoing territorial dispute with Venezuela regarding the contentious Esequibo region.

As Venezuela’s government initiated a process to withdraw from the OAS in 2017, the organization has since recognized representatives of the political opposition, and currently has no envoy from Venezuela. Other CARICOM diplomats expressed optimism that Ramdin’s leadership could spearhead increased diversity and representation for smaller Caribbean nations confronting significant issues such as high debt, gun crime, and climate change. Ramdin will continue to function as Foreign Minister until May 25, coinciding with the conclusion of Almagro’s term and Suriname’s upcoming national elections.

The election of Albert Ramdin as the OAS’s first Caribbean Secretary General signifies a historic milestone, reflecting a commitment to diversity within the organization. His previous experience in diplomatic roles positions him to address pressing regional issues, particularly the crises in Haiti and the challenges faced by smaller Caribbean nations. As he concurrently serves as Suriname’s Foreign Minister while preparing for national elections, Ramdin’s leadership may enhance the representation and support for the Caribbean in international forums.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com