S/PV.6510Resumption1 Security Council

The President (spoke in Spanish): I wish to remind all speakers to kindly limit their statements to no more than four minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. I now give the floor to the representative of Nicaragua.

Mrs. Rubiales de Chamorro (Nicaragua) (spoke in Spanish): Allow me, first and foremost, to thank your country, Madame President, for having convened this important meeting on the situation in the sister Republic of Haiti. On behalf of the President of Nicaragua, Commander Daniel Ortega Saavedra, I also wish to convey a warm greeting to President Rene Pre'val. I also welcome the presence of the Special Representative of the Caribbean Community for Haiti, Mr. Percival James Patterson, and I thank the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy for their respective briefings. The history of the Haitian people continues to be one of great suffering and martyrdom. From the suppression of the independence movement led by the heroic Toussaint Louverture to the tragedies of the political and military intervention of various Powers and the many natural and human disasters, Haiti continues to face the demons of its past and the equally daunting challenge of eradicating poverty and achieving its right to development. It seems that it took last year's devastating earthquake for the international community as a whole to understand the pressing need for reconstruction on a new basis and the fact that without development, in the broadest sense of the word, the dream of a better future for the Haitian people would remain a fantasy. Now that the emergency and the time for compassion have passed, we have somewhat forgotten that Haiti remains in intensive care. The focus of the international community's assistance must change radically. Nicaragua finds it surprising that, following five peacekeeping missions in Haiti, it is still thought that Haitian problems can be resolved without really tackling the inherent problems of development facing the country. We are doing the people and Government of Haiti little service by maintaining a peacekeeping mission, whose cost amounts to $854 million, without adopting a holistic approach to underpin international solidarity for Haiti. The time has come to move from compassionate rhetoric to concrete acts, to honour all pledges and to genuinely launch a Marshall Plan for Haiti's reconstruction on the basis of Haiti's requirements and in full respect of its sovereignty, without impositions or conditions on the part of donors. In that regard, we do not understand why it would not be possible to mobilize and disburse the $14 billion that, according to the Inter-American Development Bank, are needed for that reconstruction. At the end of the day, that $14 billion only represents 1.45 per cent of the cost of the war in Iraq. Such efforts can obviously not be coordinated within the Security Council, but through the General Assembly or the Economic and Social Council. After the earthquake, despite Nicaragua's limited resources, President Daniel Ortega Saavedra did not hesitate to respond immediately to the needs of the people and Government of Haiti by providing teams of civil defence doctors specialized in medical care in emergency situations, who undertook more than 25,000 medical interventions in a single month. We continue to offer our tireless solidarity to the people of Haiti and the new Haitian authorities. We will further strengthen our efforts so that the scourges affecting Haiti will vanish from the daily lives of its people. In addressing this matter, Nicaragua cannot fail to mention the exemplary solidarity shown by the heroic people and Government of Cuba, which once again demonstrates that, with political will and a deep-seated sense of solidarity, despite the unjust blockade, we can help when we want to. Nicaragua would like to conclude by paying tribute to the selflessness of the staff of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti in fulfilling their duty.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Spain.

Mr. Yafiez-Barnuevo (Spain) (spoke in Spanish): On behalf of Spain, I would like to take advantage of this opportunity to express our gratitude to the delegation of Colombia for convening this open debate on the situation in Haiti. The decision to hold this meeting at such a high level is the best indication of the importance that the international community attaches to development in that country. We wish to welcome in particular the participation of President Santos Calderon, President Pre'val of Haiti, former ll-29077 President Clinton of the United States and United Nations Special Envoy for Haiti, and our Organization's Secretary-General. All of us gathered here are aware of the crucial stage that will soon begin following the announcement of the final results of the presidential and parliamentary elections that have just been held in Haiti. In recent decades, the Latin American and the Caribbean region has successfully strengthened democratic regimes, based on the rule of law, while achieving new levels of prosperity and social progress. Haiti cannot continue to be the exception. The traditional fatal outcomes in that country cannot serve as a justification for a reversal of the process of consolidating democracy and reconstruction. For this reason, the international community has forged a decisive compromise with Haiti, represented by the United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Group of Friends, to mention but a few. The mandate of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and the organization of last year's conference were the results of that commitment to strongly supporting the rebuilding of the country following the devastating earthquake of January 2010. I would like to express my appreciation for the ideas and suggestions contained in the concept paper distributed by Colombia for this debate (S/ZOll/218). Spain believes that only a legitimate Government resulting from elections can assume the responsibility to lead Haiti in the framework of a difficult process to rebuild the country. It is also very important for the international community to continue to support the new Haitian authorities. Sustainable solutions for the people must be developed in all areas: political, social and development. It is essential to help the country build its own capacities and thereby avoid indefinite dependence on external partners in a process that the Haitian authorities and citizens should maintain. Spain is committed to this endeavour at both the multilateral and the bilateral levels, from humanitarian emergency assistance to collaboration in the reconstruction process, assistance to the electoral process, and efforts to establish the rule of law. In order to ensure smooth progress in the Haitian electoral process, Spain deployed 10 observers in the OAS/Caribbean Community electoral observation mission during the first electoral round. Furthermore, I 1-29077 my country supported the work of the verification mission and sent 20 election observers to the second round. The post-electoral scenario will continue to call for our presence among the Haitian people. In this sense, Spain has contributed to MINUSTAH since its establishment in 2004 and is resolutely determined to continue supporting the Mission as long as necessary. For this reason, we co-sponsored last year's resolution 1944 (2010) extending MINUSTAH's mandate, and we are determined to continue to provide a Spanish police contingent to the Mission. MINUSTAH began with a mandate focused on peacekeeping, security issues and stabilization. Its unique role became evident after last year's tragic earthquake. The presence of MINUSTAH was revealed to be decisive given the magnitude of the catastrophe and the failure of Haitian institutional mechanisms, which were decimated by the disaster. Consequently, MINUSTAH should continue its essential work and take an integrated approach, together with other United Nations bodies in the field, by reinforcing its support to institutional consolidation and economic and social development. Its presence in the field and the promise of stability are crucial to facing the challenge of rebuilding the country and ensuring ongoing international cooperation. The Mission has also proved its usefulness in the preparation and holding of elections. Furthermore, the Mission's work is key to meeting such outstanding challenges as the resettlement of internally displaced persons and the establishment of the rule of law, including the armed forces, the judicial and penitentiary systems, the strengthening of judicial security and the protection of human rights. Spain's presence was already significant before the earthquake as the third-largest bilateral donor in Haiti. Spain has the greatest interest in contributing to the coordination of the international community's efforts in the rebuilding and strengthening of the Haitian authorities' capacity to lead the process, in close coordination with the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission led by the Prime Minister and United Nations Special Envoy Clinton. At the conference that took place in New York on March 2010, Spain promised to contribute €346 million to the rebuilding process from 2010 to 2013. This amount is being channelled, inter alia, through contributions to the multilateral Haiti Reconstruction Fund, cooperation with Inter-American Development Bank and direct cooperation with the Haitian authorities. We must be aware that the success of MINUSTAH and the United Nations as a whole will also depend on a positive perception of its work on the part of the Haitian population. We must all therefore redouble our efforts to broadcast the positive results that the Mission has achieved for the country. The Spanish Government reiterates its support and appreciation for the work performed by MINUSTAH, and welcomes the Mission's ongoing activities and renewed momentum. I also wish in particular to express Spain's gratitude for the extraordinary work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of MINUSTAH, Mr. Edmond Mulet. In spite of all the difficulties, the establishment of a new Government in Haiti is an opportunity to begin anew, as stated by the Secretary-General in his recent semi-annual report on MINUSTAH (S/2011/183*). The people and Government of Haiti can rest assured that Spain will do whatever it takes to make it a reality.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Mr. Valero Bricefio (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela) (spoke in Spanish): On behalf of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, I congratulate you, Madame, on Colombia's assumption of the presidency of the Security Council this month and on your Government's initiative to convene this open debate on the current situation in Haiti. The challenges facing that brotherly Caribbean country are enormous in the context of its reconstruction and in overcoming the age-old structural problems inherited from the age of colonization, neocolonialism, despotism and political oppression. I reaffirm Venezuela's commitment to Haiti. Our country's participation in all initiatives to promote Haiti's comprehensive development is ongoing. The foreign policy of the Bolivarian Government shares a new vision for Latin America and the Caribbean that strongly promotes humanist integration processes. The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America- Peoples' Trade Agreement (ALBA-TCP), Petrocaribe, the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), and the soon to be created community of Latin America and the Caribbean States in Venezuela are emblematic of that policy. Similarly, the Bolivarian Government further promotes bilateral relations with all countries of our region, including Colombia, on the basis of solidarity. Venezuela's cooperation with Haiti increased following the disastrous earthquake of 12 January 2010. But, as President Preval has noted, Venezuela and the countries of ALBA-TCP were already present in the country of Petion at the time of that tragic natural phenomenon. Among other things, we wish here to underscore that the generous cooperation of the Government and people of Cuba in Haiti has been exemplary. This morning, Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla provided ample details of his country's and ALBA's solidarity with, and assistance to, the Haitian people. Following the earthquake, the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela issued its plan for the solidarity and contribution of ALBA countries to efforts to rebuild Haiti. That plan set out eight steps in various areas for the long, medium and short terms, to which I would like to refer briefly. In the area of health, Venezuela has made an initial contribution of $20 million to Cuba's medical mission, with a view to expanding health plans begun in the context of the Cuba-Venezuela-Haiti tripartite agreement. With regard to financial support, we have established the ALBA humanitarian fund for Haiti, funded with an initial Venezuelan contribution of $50 million. The fund provides financing for social organizations from voluntary financial contributions from member States and from corporations, including the Venezuelan companies Petroleos de Venezuela and Citgo. In the area of energy, Venezuela cancelled Haiti's $405 million debt to Petrocaribe. In addition, on an ongoing basis, we frequently guarantee Haiti direct humanitarian fuel supplies for 45 health centres' electrical plants throughout the country. With regard to agricultural and nutrition initiatives, the ALBA agricultural commission has distributed corn seed donated by Venezuela's National Agricultural Research Institute. On education, since 2006 Venezuela has hosted 174 Haitian students to attend university courses in 11-29077 various areas of interest related to the development of their country. In addition, since the end of 2009, with Venezuelan financing, Cuba has provided technical advice for the Yes I Can literacy programme. On migration, we have regularized the immigration status of Haitian citizens in ALBA-TCP countries. In July 2010, Venezuela granted residency to 855 Haitian men and women. With regard to reconstruction, we have build 128 low-income housing units in the Village Renaissance area of Cite Soleil in Port-au-Prince. In the areas of security, transport and logistics, at the time of the original emergency, the Venezuelan company Citgo guaranteed the transfer of supplies, materials and equipment for reconstruction plans. That included 679 tons in food supplies, 127 tons of equipment, 120 tons of tents and 225,000 barrels of gasoline and diesel fuel. Venezuela has joined solidarity efforts promoted by the Union of South American Nations by providing technical and political assistance for the country's reconstruction and by contributing to the development of an inclusive, participatory and equitable development model. Venezuela has also supported the establishment of UNASUR's technical office, including its plan of action. Our country believes that efforts aimed at achieving the long-term sustainable development of the fraternal country of Haiti should be based on the principles of solidarity, complementarity and reciprocity. In that regard, there is a need to implement a development policy that replaces the paternalistic and economically driven vision. Such a policy should be carried out in a sovereign manner by the Government and people of Haiti, who are aware of their own reality and needs. Full respect for institutions and elections legislation, in the context of a sovereign institutional reconstruction process in Haiti, constitutes an essential precondition to achieving political stability. There can be no development without peace and stability; nor can there be peace and stability while there is hunger, poverty and illiteracy. Achieving social justice and eradicating poverty are the two main challenges facing Haiti at this point in its history. The Government and people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela are prepared to continue to contribute to the achievement of those noble objectives. 11-29077

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Mexico.

Mr. Granguillhome Morfin (Mexico) (spoke in Spanish): On behalf of the Government of Mexico, I would like to express our gratitude for the invitation to participate in this debate convened by the Government of Colombia. The moment could not be more opportune, given the conclusion of the second phase of the current electoral process in Haiti. Mexico hopes that it will be concluded successfully, with full observance of the law and respect for institutions. We hope this will be a new stage in the democratic life of the country. The earthquake in Haiti and the devastation that ensued was an unprecedented challenge for the international community, given the scope of the destruction and the subsequent epidemic. The earthquake also revealed the weaknesses of international development assistance. In reply to one of the questions raised by the presidency, the international response to the earthquake and the epidemic could have been more efficient and effective. As soon as the tragedy occurred, we in Mexico set up an emergency air bridge to deploy rescue personnel and approximately 15,000 tons of humanitarian assistance. In both the emergency response and reconstruction stages, Mexico became involved in the greatest effort at international cooperation in the history of its foreign policy. We carried out innovations in modalities for cooperation and established the public-private Mexican Alliance for Haiti, to which the Mexican Government provided $8 million for projects to strengthen institutions and carry out health and education initiatives. In addition, six Mexican private foundations provided an additional $3 million for those purposes. Moreover, in coordination with the Haitian Ministry of Health, the Government of Mexico is building six multi-purpose clinics in various camps for displaced persons. In providing assistance to Haiti, Mexico has observed the increasingly accepted principles of harmonization, complementarity, ownership and, of course, sustainability. Mexico's assistance programmes and projects in Haiti attach special attention to creating capacities and strengthening institutions, which are necessary conditions for achieving lasting and effective 5 solutions, as pointed out by Colombia's presidency in its concept paper (S/2011/218, annex). During its recent membership of the Security Council, Mexico advocated for the Council to act immediately and decisively to address the emergency caused by the earthquake and strengthen the activities of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). Also in the Council, Mexico emphasized the close link that exists between development and security in putting in place measures to address the conflicts on the Council's agenda, including the case of Haiti. The Government of Mexico is pleased, therefore, to welcome the Colombian proposal aimed at strengthening MINUSTAH's mandate by adding a development component to the security component. The recent presidential and legislative elections in Haiti represent a new opportunity to create a political framework that would include the economic and social instruments necessary to promote development in Haiti. This is an opportunity to move forward in the area of political and democratic stability, which would lead to greater international support in terms of cooperation as well as greater trade and investment flows to support the reconstruction process and the long-term development of that country. The long-term reconstruction and development of Haiti remain a tremendous challenge for the country and for the international community as a whole. The international community must continue in this great undertaking on the basis of the interests and priorities of the Government and the people of Haiti. It is also crucial to enhance the coordination of international cooperation and related processes so as to make them more effective and efficient. Mexico will continue to be committed to this task.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Jose Miguel Insulza, Secretary-General of the Organization of American States.

Mr. Insulza (spoke in Spanish): Madam President, I wish to thank you, President Santos Calderon and your Government for having invited us to participate in this meeting of the Security Council on the question of Haiti. As members of the Council are aware, since August 2010, the Organization of American States 6 (OAS) and the countries of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have had a joint electoral observation mission in Haiti with the goal of monitoring all aspects of the electoral process. This observation mission, the first such joint mission, is part of the efforts of the OAS to support the strengthening of the rule of law and governance in Haiti, which, we hope, will ultimately lead to the creation of a more permanent institution for organizing future elections in that country. The joint mission is also an example of the importance of coordination among the various international actors in Haiti, including the United Nations, through the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and the representatives of the Friends of Haiti, the OAS, CARICOM, and, of course, the international financial institutions, especially the Inter-American Development Bank. As noted by the chief of the mission, Ambassador Colin Granderson, the elections of 28 November 2010 took place in circumstances that were not very propitious, as we all are aware. It is important, therefore, that we give proper credit to the President of Haiti, Mr. Rene' Preval, who, in spite of all of the difficulties encountered, never prevaricated with regard to the need to ensure that the elections took place on the agreed date, as democracy must prevail over any difficulties that may be encountered. Of course, there were problems surrounding the first round of elections, and we all are aware of the efforts that were made to facilitate a resolution of that crisis. The second round of elections, held on 20 March 2011, were better organized and were conducted in a more peaceful atmosphere. We had a second electoral mission of more than 200 observers who were deployed in the field, in addition to the other activities that our mission was coordinating. One of those challenges - and this is reflected in the mission's first report - involved the preliminary results that were announced by the Provisional Electoral Council, which were confirmed on 16 April. Haiti will have a new President and once again a peaceful handover of power, which is the hallmark of a democratic process. Once again, as we heard this morning, President Rene Preval will play a leading role in this peaceful transition. 11-29077 Thus a new chapter begins in Haiti. This will not be an easy chapter, as it will focus on the many political challenges that the country and its new President will face in terms of State power divided between two branches of Government. The preliminary results indicate that the parties that lost or which did not participate in the presidential elections will hold the majority in the two houses of Congress, which has to approve the nomination of the new Prime Minister. There is therefore a need for ongoing political dialogue among all relevant actors, which is a prerequisite for effective governance. This is an area in which we will continue to support the efforts made by Haiti working together with the Caribbean community through CARICOM. This is easier said than done. Not only are the parties from different ideological persuasions, but the divisions created by the recent elections are obstacles to reconciliation. However, good governance will require a new approach to politics in terms of seeking out a compromise and a consensus between the executive and legislative branches that will lead to stability and promote a successful reconstruction process. It will also be necessary for the various interests to find expression and to contribute to the progress of society, moving forward as one and not as disparate, feuding groups. It is therefore all the more important that there be a dialogue, so that the international community can continue to support reconstruction efforts, which are critical. To that end, as has been said here, Haiti must lead its own recovery process, with a clear vision as to what the Haitian people need for their future and the reconstruction of the country, on the basis on an agreement among the political powers. We have heard here some of the concerns regarding the involvement of the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission (IHRC) with respect to its focus and operations. There are concerns about the limited resources that have been disbursed vis-a-vis the funds that were pledged to the Haiti Reconstruction Fund, and about an apparent shift in the approach of countries and institutions towards an approach that is aimed more at bilateral planning and use of resources than at coordination. This, perhaps, may not bode well for addressing the priorities identified by the Haitian Government in its long-term action plan. 11-29077 With a new President to be inaugurated shortly, it is therefore crucial that the working methods of the IHRC be reviewed in order to ensure that the priorities of the Haitian Government are met on an urgent basis during the remainder of the life of the Commission. At this time, I wish to reiterate the call on the international donor community to provide the funds that were pledged to the Reconstruction Fund and, to the largest extent possible, harmonize their bilateral activities, as well as the input of non-governmental organizations, with the priorities of the Government of Haiti. Statements have been made recently on the advisability of maintaining or modifying the character of MINUSTAH. We have no doubts about the need to extend its presence, because we believe that it is essential for maintaining the peaceful and stable environment that is necessary for reconstruction. But the international community has to be able to act in a more coordinated and orderly fashion and must direct all its resources to achieving goals that are decided upon by and with the Government of Haiti. Most Haitians and many of their leaders are under the impression that a large part of the resources are not really being spent in Haiti and are not being spent to meet its people's needs. That impression must be dispelled through fast, coordinated and transparent action. In that regard, we welcome the statements made by former President William Clinton with regard to the manner in which the resources in the Reconstruction Fund are to be channelled. The OAS is willing to support Haiti in the promotion of a policy of dialogue and compromise, in the strengthening of institutional governance, and in the creation of an effective public sector. Equally crucial in this phase is to work together with the Government in order to further develop the cadastral infrastructure project, which was recently submitted to the IHRC for approval. In addition to the ongoing civil registry project, which is almost complete and the first phase of which we are implementing, we are working on a joint project with the Electoral Council; the cadastre project is also crucial in order to strengthen the rule of law in Haiti. It is also the basis for economic progress through investment, as order and predictability in the area of property rights and land ownership are essential contributing factors to ensuring 7 economic development and reconstruction as well as foreign and internal investment. The time is ripe to re-establish trust between Haiti and the international community. That trust was apparent in the months immediately following the earthquake of 12 January 2010, but it was severely tested in the aftermath of the first round of elections. In the new chapter unfolding in Haiti, we hope that we will join forces for the democratic development of that dear country.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Luis Alberto Moreno, President of the Inter-American Development Bank.

Mr. Moreno (Inter-American Development Bank) (spoke in Spanish): I would like to focus my statement on the recent work of the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), and recall what was said by President Santos - that this is the time to think about the long term. I think that now, over a year since the earthquake, there is no doubt that this is the phase that we are in. I would like to start by expressing my great gratitude to President Preval. There have been earthquakes and hurricanes in Haiti, but during his presidency, democracy prevailed. I believe that this is one of his great legacies for the future, in addition to many other things. I would also like to say that, in the period preceding the earthquake and even earlier, the Inter-American Development Bank, which has worked in Haiti for over 50 years, had significantly increased its contributions to Haiti in the form of donations. Exactly a year ago, with the increasing capital provided by the IADB, we became one of the major donors in Haiti. Thanks to a large contribution from Latin American countries, the IADB has earmarked $200 million a year to Haiti for the next 10 years, along with debt forgiveness of almost $500 million. This obviously provided us with a very broad range for action and allowed us to create an action group devoted exclusively to Haiti. Today, we have over 50 professionals in Port-au-Prince, enabling us to carry out very important work there and complement the efforts of other donors. I think this was one of the best experiences that we could have had following the earthquake, thanks to the establishment of the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission (IHRC). In this way, we support a long-term vision. I would also like to mention briefly a few of the sectors in which we have been working. There are six priority sectors where we have been working with different donors, in addition to the contributions of the IADB. These areas are infrastructure, transportation, water, sanitation, energy and education. On this last issue, I would like to highlight one of the great visions of President Preval. For many years, he has been working on the first education policy to include all Haitians. In this context, there is one important fact. In Haiti, 80 per cent of education is private, and of course the quality varies according to the school; more important, however, is the fact that about 1.2 million children do not have access to education today. Thus, our Bank will initially contribute $250 million to this very ambitious education programme, involving $2 billion over the next five years; we have also managed, with other donors, to come up with another $250 million. I say this because we are basically making direct transfers to teachers, making use of best practices and really generating profound change in Haiti. The third issue is related to infrastructure. When I recently met President Preval, just after his election, he told me that he would like to start in Jeremie, go through Port-au-Prince and arrive in Cap-Haitien. I think that we could have achieved that if it were not for the earthquake. The most important lesson here is that there are many ideas but few projects. How we carry out projects is one of the main issues. I think that, here, the work with the IHRC has been crucial. For example, on roads, we have worked with the Canadian Government and IADB resources, as well as with the European Union, with which we have basically been working along these lines. There is also the issue of private sector development. Here, before talking about this issue, I would like to mention something else concerning education. We sometimes forget that the earthquake destroyed almost 50 per cent of the schools in Haiti, but today many students are still going to school. I think this is something that is very important to highlight. It is very easy to speak negatively about Haiti, but many positive things are happening there. The other matter that I wish to raise concerns the development of the private sector, which I believe is one of the most important issues. When President 11-29077 Clinton was appointed United Nations Special Envoy for Haiti, we organized, well before the earthquake, a conference for investors. More than 600 investors attended it, many of whom were from the Latin American region. Now, thanks to cooperation provided by Spain, we have a fund that should support the development of small and medium-sized businesses; the fund now totals over $60 million, with a component that includes extensive training. We must also take into account the fact that 95 per cent of companies in Haiti are informal. On the other hand, we are working on a project that has been referred to here and that I would also like to highlight. In northern Haiti, there is an industrial park that should create 20,000 jobs. In today's world, any president of any developed country would be pleased to inaugurate a project that would generate 20,000 jobs. This is going to happen within the year, when we conclude the arrangement with the United States Government, the IADB and a Korean investor. We hope that this type of initiative will continue, because we think that the development of the private sector in a country like Haiti is absolutely crucial. I would also like to tell you, Madame, that we are working with the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia to develop coffee production involving Haiti. Haiti cultivates coffee on a large scale, which has been neglected for some years. Furthermore, thanks to Coca-Cola, today a brand of mango juice is being distributed in the United States and Canada. This has made it possible for the IADB to organize 25,000 mango producers, and Coca-Cola is buying all their products. To conclude, I note that we have also worked with the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). The Bank has established an account to which many UNASUR countries have made contributions that have gone directly to the Government of Haiti. Of course, we also work with the Organization of American States. We are partners and brotherly institutions within the inter-American system. Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the work that has been done by Prime Minister Bellerive and President Clinton with the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission. I believe that, given all the complexity in Haiti, the fact that they have been able to bring together all the different donors has made it possible to 11-29077 start speaking more about projects and less about ideas; those projects, of course, will be the main challenge. But the most important thing is that these have been developed in the context of a strategy that, in the final analysis and as has been reiterated several times here, originated with the Government of Haiti.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the Special Representative of the Caribbean Community for Haiti.

Mr. Patterson (Caribbean Community): Colombia deserves the highest commendation for its timely initiative to promote this open debate of the Security Council on the question concerning Haiti. I regard it as a singular privilege to have been invited by the President of the Security Council to participate in this debate and to share insights as the Special Representative of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) - a community of 14 sovereign nations, including Haiti. We gather here 15 months after an earthquake that killed, maimed and dislocated unprecedented numbers of the population of Haiti, decimated the economy and destroyed large sections of the natural and built assets of that country. And yet, two days ago, despite the formidable challenges of holding elections during the turmoil and turbulence associated with such severe catastrophe, the Provincial Electoral Council was still able to announce the preliminary results of the national elections. The outcome is a testament to what can be achieved through partnership. President Preval is to be applauded for his steadfast position and courage to ensure that there has been no interruption of the democratic chain. The incumbent leadership of Haiti, the operators of the electoral system and political contestants, working together with an array of external support from international and regional organizations and a number of committed nations, all combined to overcome formidable odds. This represents a victory for democracy that must not fail to be rewarded with a premium to enhance the success of reconstruction efforts during this phase of democratic transition and throughout the tenure of the new political Administration. When the action plan for the reconstruction of Haiti was adopted by the international community here at United Nations Headquarters in March 2010, we proclaimed with great fanfare that it was to be led, steered and driven by Haiti. The action plan was posited on four main pillars: territorial, economic, social and institutional. No one can question that these four sectors are mutually reinforcing and vital to optimum development. But if Haiti is really to exercise leadership in the process of reconstruction and the development of its people, we only delude ourselves if we expect the Government of Haiti to deliver its full share in the absence of adequate administrative capacity. Before the earthquake, Haiti's institutional capacity was admittedly weak, and it was further decapitated by the disaster. The restructuring, strengthening and building of Haiti's institutional capacity are the lynchpins that lie at the heart of any plan for national recovery and sustainable development. CARICOM. regards strong, robust and flexible institutional capacity as a sine qua non for sustainable development, good governance and security. The reinforcement of the capacity of the Haitian State is therefore now of the utmost urgency. The pace of progress will be retarded and the most immediate priorities of Haiti will remain at the bottom of the ranking unless the State has the requisite administrative and technical capacity, as well as access to the necessary financial resources, to provide the public with goods and services that are unquestionably the responsibility of all States. The Caribbean Community has decided to concentrate its direct support to Haiti in the area of institutional development and augmentation by making available experienced personnel in different areas of governmental administration, providing opportunities for training in areas of high need, and helping to establish regional standards in such areas as the establishment of a building code, as well as regional standards for goods and professional services. We seek to work with United Nations agencies and hemispheric groupings that have expressed an interest in working with us in these areas. We will need to avoid duplication. Our ultimate goal must ensure that, when the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission's mandate expires, the Haitians have the tools and the capacity to continue on their own. Now more than ever, the people of Haiti are entitled to see tangible democratic dividends that have a significant impact on the quality of their lives, in particular durable shelter for the internally displaced and access to basic services, which include water and sanitation, as well as the provision ofjobs. Throughout its existence, CARICOM. has maintained the inseparable links between governance, security and development. Social and economic development are tightly interconnected with security, stability and the rule of law. The recent report of the Secretary-General (S/2011/183*) is a useful document that highlights the important role played by the United Nations and the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) so far. Within that context, the Community endorses the view that we have reached the juncture where MINUSTAH must be guided in order to become even more actively engaged with the United Nations agencies in supporting and strengthening the core structures and capacities of Haiti. This should extend beyond security and stability to embrace support for strengthening the institutions of that State in order to accelerate economic, social and territorial rebuilding. We believe that the current MINUSTAH mandate is sufficiently wide and flexible to permit, without requiring any change at this time, a better coordination of resources with those from other sections of the United Nations system and to allow it to be the key development partner in assisting the Government to address the critical areas of reconstruction and development. The time has come to turn all our weapons into ploughshares and to contribute to the realization of the bold strategy approved 15 months ago, which will result in the economic, social, political and institutional development of Haiti. The mission statement must be to enable Haiti to stand firmly on its own two feet and to move forward to fulfil its manifest destiny. While we recognize and appreciate the accomplishments so far, we are concerned that the pledges made by the international community have fallen short and that the inflows to the Haiti Reconstruction Fund have been insufficient to make a visible impression on the ordinary Haitian as another hurricane season draws nigh. We contend that there is a compelling need for greater coordination between the multilaterals, the bilaterals and the non-governmental organizations in order to fulfil the urgent needs and priorities of the Government of Haiti and its people. If 11-29077 nothing else, the presidential statement (S/PRST/200l/7) will, we hope, serve to that end. Members may rest assured that CARICOM remains determined to work for Haiti as we seek, with the help and support of the international community, to rebuild and develop the most populous State within the single Caribbean Community to which we belong.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I give the floor to the representative of Guatemala.

Mr. Rosenthal (Guatemala) (spoke in Spanish): I thank the Colombian presidency of the Council for having convened this open debate. I also thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report (S/2011/183*) on the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). I further wish to express our respect and admiration for former President Bill Clinton, United Nations Special Envoy for Haiti, and for my compatriot Edmond Mulet, Special Representative of the Secretary-General. The Secretary-General's report before us leaves no doubt about the gravity of the situation in Haiti. It appears that this country, in addition to its long- standing problems as the least developed country in the hemisphere, has over the past 15 months encountered a perfect storm caused by various factors - some man- made, others natural disasters * that have become truly daunting obstacles. Yet, as the report concludes, today Haitians and the friends of Haiti have the chance to make a fresh start. Guatemala is among those friends. Haiti is in our neighbourhood and we share common challenges and aspirations. For this reason, along with many other Latin American countries, we have committed a large contingent of peacekeepers and peacebuilders to MINUSTAH. The fresh start to which I have alluded will require a concerted effort on the part of Haitians themselves, beginning with the formation of a new Government following the elections held two weeks ago. It will also require a concerted effort on the part of the international community, beginning with honouring the pledges made in this very building almost exactly a year ago. And it will require a concerted effort on the part of the United Nations. While it is clearly much too early to begin to discuss an exit strategy for MINUSTAH, it is to be hoped that that moment will also arrive. The fact is that, for now, it is essential to maintain a substantive international military and police presence on the ground, as has been obvious from the wide range of support activities that the Mission provides. We would like to convey our gratitude to Mr. Edmond Mulet and his colleagues for the outstanding work that they have done in exceedingly difficult circumstances. Before 12 January 2010, the Mission had been entering a period of consolidation. A renewed effort will be needed in the coming year, with the Mission continuing to help the Government to preserve the stabilization progress made before the earthquake and to ensure a smooth transition to long-term consolidation. Much of that renewed effort can be achieved by strengthening the existing mandate, paying particular attention to the rule of law, security sector reform and ending impunity. The new beginning also stems from the electoral process. We welcome the recent presidential run-off election, take note of the preliminary results and await the final results. A new Administration will provide an opportunity to tackle the numerous and complex challenges facing Haiti, with the support of the international community. Our collective effort is as much about the transformation of Haiti as it is about its reconstruction. In that regard, we urge the international community not to waver in its support and to act in a coordinated fashion in accordance with the priorities of national authorities. In conclusion, I wish to may tribute to President Rene Preval, who, in spite of all the difficulties he has faced, is leaving his country with great potential for recovery and a transition towards both greater development and greater democracy, for which we are most grateful.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Israel.

Mr. Waxman (Israel): Allow me to congratulate you, Madame President, on Colombia's able stewardship of the Security Council this month. I would also like to thank Colombia for organizing this timely and important debate on the question of Haiti. I wish to join previous speakers in welcoming President Preval to today's debate. I would like to express my admiration for the strength and resilience of the Haitian people, which continue to inspire my country and countless others around the world. Today's debate highlights the progress that we continue to see in the recovery of the Republic of Haiti following the tragic and devastating earthquake of last year. It also makes clear the many challenges that lie ahead in this effort. From the moment that the news broke about the tragedy, Israel resolved to assist in whatever way it could. As such, within three days of the earthquake, Israel had already deployed more than 200 personnel to Haiti, including Israel Defense Forces search-and-rescue, forensic and medical teams. Israel rapidly constructed and operated a field hospital in Port-au-Prince, with the capacity to treat more than 500 patients daily. In total, the hospital treated more than 1,000 patients, performed 317 surgeries' and delivered 16 babies, including three by Caesarean section. When international efforts moved from the phase of rescue to recovery, Israel's National Agency for International Development Cooperation, in consultation with the Government of Haiti, began to develop projects specific to the needs of the people of Haiti. As part of that effort, just last week, a team of Israeli and Haitian contractors began the construction of a new trauma unit at the Hopital Justinien in Cap- Ha'itien. A joint venture between the Israeli Government, the Office of the Haitian Prime Minister and the Haitian Ministry of Health, that collaborative effort will bring a modern trauma centre to the people of Cap-Haitien. The centre will offer high-quality medical care for trauma and other emergency medical needs and provide important surge capacity in the unfortunate case of future disasters. In addition to supporting the construction of that trauma unit, the Government of Israel will provide the medical equipment and specialized training necessary for the hospital's staff to operate this unique centre. Israel has also played a part in the intergovernmental peacekeeping efforts in Haiti that followed the tragedy, deploying a police unit to participate in the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti. As the first deployment of its kind by Israel, the unit consisted of 14 Israeli policemen with specialized capabilities in crowd control. Israel's police officers served under Italian command - the first international formed police unit to participate in a peacekeeping mission. Israel believes that promoting democracy and stability remains a crucial component for advancing the process of full recovery in Haiti. We welcome the preliminary results of Haiti's second round of elections as an important step in that effort. Israel will remain closely engaged with the authorities in Haiti and with the international community in order to play our part in a sustained and comprehensive recovery process that will build a bright and prosperous future for the Haitian people.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Japan.

Mr. Kodama (Japan): At the outset, I wish to express my deep appreciation for the condolences and support offered by many Member States and international organizations, as well as people from all over the world, to the people and Government of Japan following the devastating earthquake and tsunami. Since last year's earthquake in Haiti, the Haitian people have made determined efforts to address many challenges similar to those that the Japanese people now face. I strongly believe that Haiti and Japan will overcome these difficulties through mutual encouragement and the assistance of international partners. We welcome the fact that the final stage of the presidential election last month was largely peaceful and conducted without significant confusion. Japan assisted the Government of Haiti in implementing the elections through logistical support and by supplying election observers. We hope that the President's inauguration will proceed smoothly and that the new Administration will begin work immediately to address the many challenges ahead. Japan intends to establish close cooperation with the new Administration in order to accelerate the reconstruction efforts in Haiti. As all members are aware, the final results of the presidential elections will be announced by the Provisional Electoral Council on 16 April. We would like to stress that all political actors have a solemn responsibility to call on their supporters to remain calm, refrain from violence and resolve any electoral disputes through established legal mechanisms. We commend the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and the troop- and police-contributing countries for their efforts to maintain relative calm in the security situation in Haiti. We also welcome the fact that the operational performance of the Haitian National Police has generally improved. At the same time, there are some concerns about the occurrence of sexual violence around camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs), the increase in gang activities and the presence of escaped inmates from collapsed prisons. In that regard, we further encourage MINUSTAH to make every effort to maintain a secure environment and to provide sufficient capacity-building support for the Haitian National Police. In addition, the Haitian Government must ensure a durable socio-economic foundation through efforts to strengthen the rule of law in order to achieve sustainable development. In Haiti, the needs for capacity-building support in the area of the rule of law are still considerable. The various contributions by the international community should be continued. It is also essential to appropriately ensure ownership for the reinforcement of the rule of law. In that regard, we wish to underscore that all international partners should coordinate their efforts closely with the Haitian Government, and that the Government itself must make a further commitment to these efforts. In addition, the latest report of the Secretary- General on MINUSTAH (S/2011/183*) mentions that the United Nations will conduct a comprehensive security assessment in Haiti in the near future. We look forward to learning the outcome of the assessment, as it will have a major impact on decisions regarding the future mandate and scale of MINUSTAH. At this juncture, more than a year after the earthquake that devastated Haiti, we recognize that reconstruction efforts must be further accelerated through comprehensive measures, including the rebuilding of infrastructure, the creation of employment and support for State institutions. In that regard, we encourage MINUSTAH to continue to utilize its capacity for the reconstruction of Haiti. The Government of Japan has dispatched Japan Ground Self-Defence Forces to MINUSTAH, who have made a contribution to the reconstruction of Haiti by engaging in tasks such as the removal of rubble, levelling ground for IDP camps, road repairs, the construction of orphanage facilities and water distribution efforts in response to the outbreak of cholera. The Government of Japan has also provided assistance, in cooperation with international organizations, in providing temporary housing, taking measures against infectious diseases and distributing food. Japan has pledged $100 million for Haiti, which has already been implemented or disbursed, including a contribution of $30 million to the Haiti Reconstruction Fund. The remainder of the pledge has been authorized. I would like to stress that the quick disbursement of pledges by all relevant partners is highly encouraged for the early reconstruction of Haiti. Let me conclude by providing assurances that Japan, together with the international community, will continue to provide maximum support far Haiti's efforts towards reconstruction and stabilization.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of the Republic of Korea.

Mr. Shin Dong Ik (Republic of Korea): At the outset, I would like express my appreciation to you, Madame President, for having organized this meaningful open debate on the question concerning Haiti. Following the destructive earthquake of January 2010, Haiti is now showing signs of recovery and reconstruction, and seeing a semblance of normalcy return to daily life. Our task is to ensure that this continues while we simultaneously do everything we can to facilitate security, humanitarian relief, institution-building and political and economic development. With regard to the political situation, my delegation was encouraged by the announcement, on 4April, of preliminary electoral results by the Provisional Electoral Council, which provided evidence of the spirit of peace and fair play in Haiti. My delegation hopes that the results of the final tally, due on 16 April, will be accepted by all parties involved, so that Haiti can move forward into a new era of leadership and development in the post-quake era. In the same vein, strengthening the rule of law and building institutions across the board is imperative for the long-term security and development of Haiti. Indeed, reconstruction and humanitarian programmes in Haiti must be pursued with a view both to promoting a sustainable security situation and furthering economic, social and political development. It is therefore essential that peacekeeping, peacebuilding and sustainable development be pursued by a parallel approach that takes into account the various challenges of institution-building. Institution-building in Haiti must ensure that basic national capacities are restored at the earliest possible juncture in order to stabilize the delicate post- disaster situation. The rule of law, effective governance and security-sector reform are the areas that require the highest priority. We must also take into consideration the complementary relationship between development and security. As the Council recently concluded, underdevelopment is a root cause of insecurity and conflict. Taking a broad approach to political insecurity that takes economic and social factors into account can yield results. My delegation believes that development in Haiti continues to require the engagement of a variety of stakeholders, including the United Nations, the international financial institutions and civil society. By harnessing our collective efforts to promote sustained, long-lasting development today, we can tackle the root causes of Haiti's security concerns of tomorrow. One tangible way that this can be pursued is to actively focus on creating employment opportunities for young people. This would allow many young people options beyond joining armed groups and resorting to crime, which are often the only providers of immediate wages and sustenance. As such, development, and economic development in particular, must be undertaken in a sustained, inclusive and equitable manner. The Korean people and Government have the utmost sympathy for the Haitian people in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake and the subsequent humanitarian crisis. We take note of the overwhelming international response following the quake and the many improvements that have been implemented to provide basic necessities such as water, food, temporary shelter and medical care. In that regard, the Korean Government and private sector have contributed more than $47 million to provide post- quake humanitarian relief to support key reconstruction projects, such as strengthening the basic health infrastructure, improving the water supply and providing job training. Beyond humanitarian contributions, Korea also dispatched a 240-strong engineering company to the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). The company is currently active in the Leogane area of responsibility, one of the hardest-hit areas of the country. At the present juncture, Korea is focusing on providing targeted relief in the areas of debris removal and completing road construction. We commend MINUSTAH for its invaluable role in both maintaining peace and security and leading the way in recovery and reconstruction efforts. My delegation is extremely concerned by the recent report of the Secretary-General on MINUSTAH (S/2011/183*) and reports by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on Haiti that detail widespread incidences of rape and sexual violence occurring within camps for internally displaced persons and the broader community. We urge the Haitian Government, as well as the Department for Peacekeeping Operations and NGOs on the ground, to do their utmost to protect vulnerable women and girls within the camps. As noted in the report of the Secretary-General, the United Nations initiated an operational plan to increase women's security in August 2010. This is a step in the right direction, but problems persist in the reporting of crimes of sexual violence, data collection, the climate of impunity and the overall lack of institutions. These hinder the rule of justice in finding and prosecuting perpetrators of such crimes. As we move from post-disaster humanitarian and security relief to long-term reconstruction, it is imperative that the international community remain resolute in doing everything it can to strengthen Haiti's capacities. In the near future, however, the international community is still needed to provide additional direct assistance, particularly in the areas of shelter, sanitation and ensuring adequate supplies of clean water. The mobilization of the international community in the immediate aftermath of the quake was heartening and unprecedented, but we must continue to stand with Haiti in the critical months and years to come.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Honduras.

Ms. Flores (Honduras) (spoke in Spanish): We would like to praise the sensitivity shown by the Council in addressing this issue. It is an honour for my delegation to participate in this open debate of the Security Council on Haiti, a nation that is close to us in geographical terms, but even more is a sister nation in sentiment because its people has been shaken by countless afflictions that are all too familiar to us. We, like them, have also experienced the upheaval of political polarization, the pain of scarcity, the burden of economic underdevelopment and the bitterness of inequalities. We have endured persistence poverty and, if that were not enough, we have also suffered the tribulations of natural disasters. We therefore understand the stoicism required to face their struggle and draw strength from weakness, as well as the fibre of the spirit that enables them to overcome adversity. Today, we come together to reaffirm our moral support and our commitment to accompanying that noble people struggling to rebuild. They have shown great commitment to picking up the pieces after the destruction, rebuilding their nation economically, institutionally, socially and politically, and striving at the same time to heal their wounds and dry the tears of grief in the wake of disaster. The task is far from small and the journey has hardly begun. What is most grievous about these misfortunes is that, while the generosity of compassionate hearts flows immediately after disaster, as time passes and the initial shock lessens, the world's attention is captured by other equally stunning and touching news. We do not wish to imply that all that has happened in Haiti has already been forgotten. We simply acknowledge that the sense of urgency recedes as each day goes by, but the mountain of needs does not. The same enormous problems persist and the agony of the Haitian people as they rebuild their lives does not abate. The hope eclipsed by disaster must be addressed and strengthened now, as it was at first, by continuous acts of solidarity and commitment, such as today's Security Council meeting, which serves as an ineluctable reminder of what happened there and of the challenges that still lie ahead. We agree with the assertion of the report of the Secretary-General (S/2011/183*) that the international community must continue to provide support. We join the Council's appeal for a concerted effort of all international actors to achieve these goals. It is striking that, after having selected 14 projects for the reconstruction of Haiti, at a projected cost of some $300 million, that country has still not received and therefore cannot spend $224 million - 75 per cent of the estimated need - to carry out those projects. The report clearly states that those projects relate to education, jobs, agriculture and health care - among the most important areas that need to be addressed. According to the figures of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, at the end of 2010 Haiti's foreign debt was 12 per cent of its gross domestic product. A country battered as Haiti was cannot bear such a heavy burden. The best way for the international community to help is to forgive the debt of a nation that today is going through the most difficult time in its history. It should not be forgotten that solidarity begins with the idea that the suffering of a father, mother or child has no nationality or borders. The cries of a baby in a suburb of Port-au-Prince, in a barrio of Tegucigalpa, in afavela of Rio de Janeiro, in the villas miserias of Buenos Aires, in the callampas of Santiago, in the ciudadela of La Paz or in the chabolas of Madrid are heard in Berlin, New York, Beijing and Moscow. There is no first, second or third world. The differences end where solidarity begins, because we are all inhabitants of the same Planet Earth.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the Acting Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations.

Mr. Serrano (spoke in Spanish): Allow me first to thank the Colombian presidency for having organized this open debate of the Security Council. With President Santo and you, Madame, presiding over this meeting, the very impressive participation of senior ministers and other dignitaries, and the important messages that we have heard today underline the importance of maintaining sustained and solid support for the Government and the people of Haiti with a view to helping them overcome the major challenges before them. Consequently, I would like to reiterate to President Preval of Haiti, who is with us here today and whom I welcome, the commitment of the European Union to these objectives. I shall read out an abridged version of the statement of the European Union. The official version is being distributed as I speak. The candidate countries Turkey, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Iceland and Montenegro; the countries of the Stabilization and Association Process and potential candidate countries Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia; as well as Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia align themselves with this statement. The year 2010 was a very difficult and tragic one for Haiti and its population. It was also a year in which the international community, including the European Union, demonstrated its solidarity and stood beside this 15 Caribbean country. Our presence today is also a demonstration of our firm commitment to restoring the political and social stability of Haiti. In this context, I would like to focus my statement on three main themes. I will first discuss political stability. The ideas of political stability, peaceful transition, reconstruction and growth are tightly interlinked. The second round of elections that took place three weeks ago and the preliminary results announced on Monday are decisive steps towards the objective of achieving the long- awaited political stability in Haiti. The European Union urges the national authorities and political stakeholders to step up their efforts so that the electoral process can rapidly reach a successful conclusion. The establishment of a new and legitimate political leadership capable of responding to the aspirations of the Haitian people is a crucial element in the reconstruction and development of the country. The second aspect I would like to stress is security. As the report of the Secretary-General (S/2011/183*) points out, despite the fact that the statistics can sometimes be somewhat unreliable, the country has been shaken by a large number of violent episodes, including crime related to drug trafficking. The most vulnerable populations, including women and children, have been the hardest hit and the main victims of the climate of insecurity. In this context, the European Union supports the crucial role played by the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti. We welcome the extraordinary work of its personnel, beginning with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Edmond Mulet. In the same way, we firmly support efforts to strengthen the capacity of the Haitian National Police in order to guarantee law and order and the rule of law throughout the national territory. The European Union awaits the next report of the Secretary-General, which will look very closely at the challenges that remain. Lastly, I would like to refer to development assistance. In March 2010, the European Union, in a joint effort with its member States, pledged more than $1.6 billion in aid to Haiti, along with $350 million that it had already contributed in humanitarian assistance. The European Union's cooperation 16 contributed significantly to renewing the basic activities of State administration and to ensuring the coverage of priority needs, in particular through direct budget aid to the social sectors. We are ready to do more. The European Union and its member States are currently working on a joint programming exercise on a strategic approach to cooperation with the Europe in Haiti until 2013. We continue to focus on direct budget support for decentralization, infrastructure development, rural development and the health and education sectors. We also acknowledge that, in terms of coordinating international assistance, despite the progress that has been made, we can do more and we can do better. Although the establishment of the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission was a step in the right direction and ensured progress in terms of coordination, we must not forget that the main objective is to strengthen the capacities of the Haitian Administration so that Haitians themselves can assume full responsibility for reconstruction efforts as soon as possible. Without national leadership in those efforts, there will be no sustainable development in Haiti. The European Union is ready to step up its assistance along those lines. Let me conclude by reaffirming the urgent need for a national consensus among the political actors in Haiti that clearly identifies reconstruction and development priorities. It remains up to the Haitians themselves to lead the way beyond this difficult period. The European Union looks forward to working closely with the newly elected national authorities, as it has done with the current administration. At the same time, we will continue to support the Haitian people in their efforts to build a stable and prosperous future. The Acting President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Canada.

Mr. McNee (Canada) (spoke in French): I would like to start by thanking you, Madame, and the Colombian delegation for having organized this debate on Haiti. I would first like to thank President Preval for his statement and for his work and contribution to strengthening Haitian democracy. I would also like to thank the Secretary-General and the United Nations Special Envoy for Haiti, President Clinton. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution made today by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General 11-29077 for Haiti, Mr. Mulet, and to thank him for his dedication to Haiti over the past few years. This debate is taking place at an opportune time, a few days before the announcement of the final results of the presidential and legislative elections. Canada would like to congratulate the citizens of Haiti, who exercised their democratic right to choose those who will govern their country. I also wish to highlight the work of the authorities and President Preval and the collaboration among various actors to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections. We would also like to thank the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) for its contribution to peacekeeping and security. Over one year after the January 2010 earthquake, Haiti still needs international support, both in the short term to meet humanitarian needs, and over the long term to help the country rebuild its infrastructure and institutions. After a catastrophe of such magnitude, a country like Haiti obviously cannot recover overnight. In the meantime, Haitians continue to be perplexed by ongoing problems related to debris removal, housing, employment and access to quality education and health care, to mention but a few issues. Their frustration appears to be justified. Despite the international community's unprecedented commitment and a desire to do more and better for Haiti, the fact is that the progress made to date does not meet expectations. Much remains to be done to help the country reach its full potential. Looking back on our efforts over the years, we must face some hard realities. Despite eight United Nations interventions of various types and billions of dollars spent over more than 25 years, Haiti is still suffering from serious problems that were exacerbated by the earthquake. Those problems include a Government that struggles to provide essential services to its people, fragile public institutions and a chronically unstable, often volatile political dynamic that is oblivious to the public interest. We cannot overlook some of the advances that have been made, however. We recognize the leadership of Haiti's Ministry of Public Health and Population in the fight against cholera. Thanks to the evolution of its mandates since its creation pursuant to resolution 1542 (2004), MINUSTAH has carried out remarkable work in strengthening security institutions, which has helped to guarantee a more stable and secure environment in Haiti. For its part, the Security Council was able to adapt MINUSTAH's mandate and allocate the necessary resources to ensure that it continues to exercise its primary role in terms of security and to provide effective assistance to reconstruction and humanitarian efforts. Canada notes with great interest that the United Nations is planning to attach increasing importance to strengthening governance and the rule of law in Haiti. That is a determining factor of any long-term success. We must reconsider the international community's approach and redouble our efforts to support good governance and respect for the rule of law in Haiti. Beyond the democratic process and the strengthening of key institutions, good governance also represents the capacity and, above all, the willingness of political leaders to accept their governmental responsibilities and thereby ensure the security and protection of and justice for their citizens. Reconstruction and development in Haiti depend first and foremost on the people of Haiti, including the Government, citizens, civil society and economic stakeholders. The international community can only provide support, the effectiveness of which depends on a number of factors. Political stability can be achieved only through an effective, honest and responsible Government that has been democratically elected by Haitians. That Government must have the public interest at heart and be able to pave the way for recovery and reconstruction. To avoid repeating mistakes of the past, Haiti must profoundly transform its governmental institutions and structures and its political culture. (spoke in English) Canada is pleased to see that the Secretary- General shares that opinion, as indicated in his recent report on Haiti (S/2011/183*). In that report, the Secretary-General refers to the fact that MINUSTAH has started the process of realigning its priorities and resources to promote a compact on the rule of law. Canada recognizes the validity of that proposal. The implementation of such a project by the Haitian Government, with the support of the international community, would help to guide the reform of key systems and institutions and could help to re-energize the commitment of the new Haitian leaders and the people of Haiti. However, if such an initiative is to be 17 implemented, there must be real ownership and leadership on the part of the Haitian authorities. Canada thinks that this initiative is timely. In fact, the arrival of new leadership is an opportunity for Haiti to make a fresh start. Canada is determined to continue to help Haiti in meeting that new challenge.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of the Bahamas.

Ms. Bethel (Bahamas): It is an honour to address the Council during today's debate on the question concerning Haiti. We naturally align ourselves with the statement delivered by The Honourable P.J. Patterson, Special Representative of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Haiti and former Prime Minister of Jamaica. On behalf of the member States of the CARICOM. region, allow me to extend a special thanks to your Government, Madame President, for convening this very important debate. For CARICOM. member States, the rebuilding of Haiti into a democratic, stable and economically viable society is a matter of the utmost priority. We thank all States members of the international community for their continued support and assistance to our sister country, Haiti. CARICOM. continues to commend the critical role of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) in its efforts to maintain peace and security in Haiti and to lay the foundation for long- term recovery and stability. The activities undertaken by MINUSTAH, which span the entire spectrum - from security to development, from support for State institutions and the rehabilitation and training of the Haitian National Police to child protection, HIV/AIDS and gender issues - have laid the foundation for Haiti's long-term post-earthquake recovery. The men and women of MINUSTAH deserve not only our gratitude but also our support and commitment to ensuring that we too meet our obligations to the Haitian people. More than a year after the earthquake, Haiti continues to face daunting challenges. A significant number of those displaced by the earthquake continue to live in camps; the situation of women and girls and other vulnerable groups within those camps continues to be very precarious; and crime and criminality are on the rise. The survival of the people of Haiti demands our long-term engagement. The recent successful conclusion of the second round of voting, which was overseen by a joint monitoring team of the Organization of American States and CARICOM, will in the long term, reinvigorate Haiti's political process, and place the Haitian people firmly in charge of their own destiny. As we work collectively towards a viable future for Haiti, CARICOM. has undertaken a number of key initiatives to provide a viable economic future for the Haitian people. CARICOM, through its Council of Trade and Economic Development, has granted a three- year, one-way, duty-free concession to goods entering the CARICOM. Single Market from Haiti. The Council is also examining an expansion of the list of goods covered. It is our firm belief that Haiti's long-term economic recovery and its full integration within the CARICOM. Single Market and Economy will redound to the benefit of the entire Caribbean. Furthermore, CARICOM. Governments have encouraged the regional private sector to collaborate and take advantage of the opportunities offered by Haiti, in order to strengthen its position in regional and external markets in the long run. Additionally, CARICOM. Governments have supported the establishment of a CARICOM. special fund for private- sector investment in Haiti to facilitate Caribbean private-sector investment in development activities in the country. Outreach will continue to be undertaken, including to members of the Caribbean diaspora, to contribute to the fund. CARICOM. Governments have also committed to providing support to augment Haiti's institutional capacity and to make available professional and technical expertise in the short to medium term. CARICOM. remains steadfast in its goal that Haiti will not be left behind. Ultimately, we will judge our success by Haiti's success. I am pleased to report that the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago are both members of the Economic and Social Council Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti, which I think is indicative of CARICOM. member States' readiness and willingness to assist and support, in all ways possible, the creation of the conditions necessary for stability and for social, political and economic development in our sister country. We reaffirm our commitment to work with other Member States in whatever context necessary and appropriate. 11-29077 However, those efforts must be complemented by activities being undertaken by the wider international community. In that regard, we must reiterate some of the concerns raised by CARICOM. heads of State and Government at their meeting held in February. CARICOM. leaders are concerned that the seeming shift away from the planning and implementation of projects under the Haiti Recovery Fund, to a bilateral approach, does not bode well for addressing the long- term priorities laid out by the Haitian Government in its Haiti action plan. CARICOM. leaders also called for a review of the working methods of the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission, in order to ensure that the priorities of the Haitian Government are met with the urgency that its mandate requires. CARICOM. leaders also continued to call for greater financial contributions to the Haitian Recovery Fund by the international donor community and for synchronization of their bilateral activities with the priorities of the Government, while maintaining the integrity of the process. The international community must also make good on the long-overdue pledges of billions of dollars that were made in the wake of the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti last year. It is unconscionable that promises made would become promises not be kept, particularly when one takes into account the dire and basic needs of Haiti and its people. Over the short to medium term, Haiti will require substantial support, both political and economic, for the new Government that is expected to be sworn into office in mid-May. As the Atlantic hurricane season draws ever closer, the role of MINUSTAH will continue to be essential, and greater focus must be given to providing sustainable shelter to those remaining in camps for internally displaced persons and other makeshift communities across the country. Greater attention must also be paid to disaster-mitigation measures, including a public education and outreach programme for the Haitian people. Those goals cannot be achieved by MINUSTAH acting without the support and cooperation of the remainder of the United Nations system. Coordinated action within the system by regional actors and the international donor community, based on the priorities identified by the Haitian Government, is the only means of achieving tangible success on the ground. Our commitment to building Haiti back better can only be realized through a coordinated effort by the entire international community. Neither the people of Haiti nor the wider international community will accept our failure.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Australia.

Mr. Goledzinowski (Australia): I would like to convey Australia's gratitude to Colombia for convening this debate on a very important subject. Over a year has passed since the catastrophic earthquake that struck Haiti, killing 220,000 of its citizens and setting back years of nation-building and development. The earthquake devastated a fragile economy and destroyed vital infrastructure. At a time when we are counting fresh losses to the United Nations family, we can also never forget that the quake also decimated the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), which is tasked with stabilization and post-conflict recovery. Australia would like to reiterate its condolences to the people of Haiti, not only for the losses they suffered in January 2010 but also for its aftermath and continued crises: 2.3 million people displaced, floods, a near brush with Hurricane Tomas, the outbreak of cholera and the various challenges posed by an election in very difficult circumstances. Despite our geographic distance from those events, Australia was one of the first to respond, with a $24 million package of relief efforts, divided between emergency relief and early recovery and reconstruction, through the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and the Caribbean Community. In a broader region-wide development assistance package, Australia is working with key partners in the Caribbean and Latin America to address the challenge of climate change, reduce the risk posed by disasters, build economic resilience and enhance the capacity of key institutions. Twelve months on, I am personally proud to report that Australia has fully funded our promised commitments. In addition to the Government's assistance package - and this statistic is even more telling, in my view - the Australian public also donated over $26 million as they watched, half a world away, Haitians bravely rebuilding their lives and livelihoods. Australia is a country that does what it says. We likewise call on all donors to honour their pledges and disburse their funds where they are still badly needed. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recently warned that Haiti's recovery was far from assured and that, while much has been accomplished, more than 800,000 people continue to live in tented camps, more than 1 million people need emergency access to water and more than 1 million children rely on donor-provided food rations. I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his mid-term report on Haiti (S/201l/183*), which underlines the serious challenges ahead. We endorse his view that strengthening the rule of law in Haiti will help to achieve sustainable peace and long-term development. Australia firmly supports the Secretary- General's call for the prosecution of all those involved in crimes against their own people, to show the Haitian people there can be no impunity. An independent judiciary and transparent and truly representative Parliament are necessary elements of good governance, which will allow the Haitian people to enjoy some of the same economic, human, social, civil and political rights as their Caribbean neighbours. As we are all aware, MINUSTAH's mission is far from complete. While the relative success of last month's presidential and legislative elections was a significant step forward for a country steeped in a history of political and civil instability, United Nations troops were needed to restore order in some areas. An orderly transition to democracy is essential to launch a new chapter in Haiti's history. I would also like to welcome the concept paper submitted by the delegation Colombia as President of the Security Council on a way forward for Haiti (S/2011/218, annex). It should catalyse debate on better coordination of the international community's efforts, as well as lessons learned, MINUSTAH's unique mandate and the challenges of rebuilding a peaceful, sovereign State without perpetuating dependence on foreign capacities and resources. One great lesson learned pertains to the coordination of relief efforts by non-governmental organizations, regional organizations and donor countries. In that regard, the United Nations Special Representative for Haiti has worked tirelessly to coordinate all actors on the ground. I would also like to pay tribute to the United Nations Special Envoy for Haiti, President Bill Clinton, who has coordinated all the various organizations to elicit funds and to ensure the notion of building back better, and that that remains a Haitian-led process. In our view, Colombia rightly raises questions about how the international community can ensure that Haiti does not become reliant on foreign intervention. In all recovery and capacity-building efforts, the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission and the Haiti Reconstruction Fund must remain central to decision- making. We need to encourage and reinforce Haiti's ownership of its own reconstruction. The Haitian Government and people are best suited to charting the future of their own country. Haiti does not face unique challenges, but coupling those challenges with disaster recovery on such scale is unique. While MINUSTAH was originally deployed to prevent a civil war, its mandate is now focused on recovery, rebuilding and unifying a country that has been rent by social and economic instability. In that regard, Australia supports Colombia's call for the maintenance and reinforcement of the special character that the Security Council has wisely given that mandate. Australia welcomes the United Nations continued work to build the mechanisms to support the rule of law in Haiti and the Security Council's mission to reinforce Haiti's peaceful and sustainable recovery. In conclusion, as the Ambassador of the Bahamas said just before me, Haiti's success will be our success, too.

The President (spoke in Spanish): I now give the floor to the representative of Norway.

Mr. Wetland (Norway): Let me start by congratulating Haiti on the recent elections and President Preval for overseeing an orderly transition, which is unprecedented in the country. While the process was far from perfect, we hope that the new President, Parliament and Government will aim to transform the country by providing stability, development and justice for all. The main responsibility for that rests with Haiti's own political and economic elites. They must be willing, as well as able, to invest both trust and money in order to make national institutions stronger and more accountable to the people. Only if that fundamental willingness exists will the assistance of the international community, including the United Nations, be effective. Much has been achieved since the devastating earthquake, at least in humanitarian terms. Lives have been saved and new disasters avoided, even in the face of cholera and Hurricane Tomas. But much more could and should have been done, in particular with regard to the Haitian Government's own capacities. The absence of a social contract, especially between the rich and the poor, and the corresponding weakness of State institutions, unable to fulfil basic political, judicial, economic, social and cultural functions, is are the core of Haiti's problems. That fundamental observation should inform our deliberations, including here in the Security Council. The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) has played an important role in providing security and stability in Haiti. In that regard, let me pay special tribute to Special Representative Edmond Mulet for his integrity and outstanding efforts as leader of the operations since the earthquake. The time has now come for MINUSTAH to adapt to new realities. MINUSTAH's heavy military presence no longer seems proportionate to Haiti's security challenges. In fact, the heavy military presence may undermine the country's efforts to normalize and to attract investment, so crucial to sustainable development. While the military component should be visibly scaled down, other stabilizing capacities should be strengthened. In particular, MINUSTAH could play a more central role in law and order reforms, including police reform. The fight against organized crime, drug trafficking and gender-based violence is but an example of issues that require increased attention. Fewer soldiers in combat gear, fewer armed vehicles and more police in the streets and in the internally displaced persons camps will certainly bring the 11-29077 Mission closer to the people, enhance legitimacy and, ultimately, make it more effective in addressing Haiti's real security and stability challenges. MINUSTAH should complement the rest of the United Nations system, in cooperation and without duplication. The integrated strategic framework should help the United Nations act as one in support of Haiti's own Government. Norway has pledged substantial and long-term support for Haiti's development. Our assistance is based on the priorities of the Haitian Government, as expressed in its national action plan. We are committed to staying the course, in close cooperation and coordination with other actors, including the United Nations.

The President (spoke in Spanish): There are no further speakers inscribed on my list. The Security Council has thus concluded the present stage of its consideration of the item on its agenda. I would like to thank President Preval for his participation and his briefing, as well as for having remained with us throughout the debate. I would also like to thank the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the Latin American countries who were with us today, which demonstrates both the importance that Haiti holds for the region and our commitment towards it. I think this was a very enriching debate, which has strengthened the presidential statement (S/PRST/2011/7), demonstrated to us all the work that lies ahead in Haiti and illustrated our commitment to work in coordination with that country. President Preval and the entire Haitian people can count on a region and a world that stand alongside him so as to ensure that Haitian citizens enjoy a better quality of life. The meeting rose at 5.40 p.m. 21