Albert Ramdin Becomes First Caribbean Secretary-General of the OAS
Suriname’s Albert Ramdin has been appointed as the first Caribbean secretary-general of the Organization of American States (OAS), succeeding Luis Almagro. His election followed unanimous endorsements from CARICOM and support from several South American countries. Ramdin, with extensive diplomatic experience, faces challenges including the OAS’s relevance and regional conflicts. His leadership aims to foster collaboration across member states to tackle issues such as security and economic development in the hemisphere.
Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname, has made history by becoming the first Caribbean diplomat to lead the Organization of American States (OAS). He assumes this role from Luis Almagro, the Uruguayan diplomat who previously held the position. Ramdin’s extensive experience includes a prior tenure as assistant secretary-general of the OAS from 2005 to 2015, where he notably visited Haiti numerous times. He has served as Suriname’s foreign affairs minister since 2020.
Ramdin’s election to the five-year secretary-general post was confirmed by acclamation during the 56th Special Session of the OAS General Assembly, attended by 25 delegates. Prior to the election, he had garnered unanimous endorsements from the 14 member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and had also received support from countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay.
His electoral opponent, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, exited the race last week after failing to secure backing from the Trump administration. The current U.S. administration has cast doubt on the OAS and its ability to assist in regional conflicts. Ramdin’s leadership will come amid ongoing discussions regarding the OAS’s effectiveness and its precarious relationship with U.S. policy.
As a former Dutch colony, Suriname maintains strong diplomatic ties with the Caribbean and is an integral part of CARICOM, which includes several former British colonies and Haiti. Ramdin’s leadership signifies a pivotal moment for the OAS and emphasizes a collective commitment to democratic values and development across the Americas.
Stanley Raghoebarsing, Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, remarked, “Today comes into reality the first time the Caribbean Community member states after more than 45 years of membership occupy the highest position in this hemispheric body.” This statement underlines the importance of Ramdin’s election and the expectations associated with his leadership.
Ramdin’s unanimous backing reflects confidence in his capacity to address critical issues, including socioeconomic development and governance. His campaign emphasized collaboration and the need for the OAS to adapt to challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, the Caribbean Community’s foreign ministers expressed confidence in Ramdin, highlighting his extensive diplomatic experience and his previous role in the OAS as key strengths for his new position. They noted that he is well-prepared to address pressing matters of peace, security, and democratic governance throughout the hemisphere, thereby contributing to a prosperous future.
Albert Ramdin’s election as the secretary-general of the OAS marks a significant milestone for both Suriname and the Caribbean Community. His leadership is expected to enhance collaboration in addressing the diverse challenges facing the Americas, including issues of democracy, socioeconomic development, and security. The support he has received reflects the trust in his capabilities to lead the organization effectively during these turbulent times. His presidency could herald a renewed commitment to shared values and collaborative solutions in the region.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
