Caricom welcomes Martelly

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada – Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Chairman Tillman Thomas says the successful completion of the presidential election has signalled a “renewal of spirit and the rise of a new political generation” in Haiti.
Tillman, who is also the Prime Minister of Grenada, said in a message to president-elect Michel Martelly that the regional integration grouping would continue to play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the French-speaking CARICOM member country recovering from the devastating earthquake last year that killed an estimated 300,000 people and left more than a million others homeless.
Martelly will be sworn into office on May 14, replacing outgoing President Rene Preval, who was barred from seeking a third consecutive term in office by the constitution.
“I extend warm congratulations to you and your party, Repons Peyizan, on your success at the polls during the Second Round of the Presidential Elections in Haiti on 20 March 2011. The successful conclusion of the legislative and presidential elections and their results, signal a renewal of spirit and the rise of a new political generation in this member state of our Community.
“The people of Haiti have demonstrated their confidence in you to undertake the stewardship of their future development at this critical juncture in their history. In so doing, in particular, they have entrusted you with the critical task of continuing the country’s efforts at reconstruction and redevelopment. In this regard, the Community has taken keen note of your intentions to accelerate the reconstruction efforts and to work with those who have the best interest of Haiti at heart,” Thomas said.
He told Martelly that “your sister nations of CARICOM take this opportunity to pledge unstinting support for the continued development and well-being of Haiti as the country embarks on a new chapter in its political life and remain committed to supporting Haiti in its reconstruction and development efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake that devastated that country.
“We look forward to the continued participation of Haiti in the activities of the Community as we seek to deepen the process of regional integration and build “A Community for All”. “
Thomas said he and other regional leaders were looking forward to meeting with Martelly “in the near future”. (CMC)