The biennial conference, running from March 26 to 29, represents the WTO’s highest decision-making body. For Haiti, the summit is a critical platform to navigate the complexities of international trade and advocate for the economic priorities of the Caribbean region.
A Strategic Diplomatic Offensive
Minister Monazard is not traveling alone. He is backed by a five-member “brain trust” of trade experts and diplomats, including:
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Ambassador Madsen Cherubin: Permanent Representative to the WTO.
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Jean Claude Barthelemy: Deputy Permanent Representative.
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Dahney Corielan: General Coordinator of BACOZ (Haiti’s coordination office for CARICOM, WTO, and FTAA).
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Nixon Guirand: Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Commerce.
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John Woosely Morisset: Advisor to the Permanent Mission.
The Agenda: Beyond the Plenary Sessions
While the main conference begins on the 26th, the Haitian delegation will dive into preparatory consultations starting March 24. These sessions are vital for aligning Haiti’s interests with powerful voting blocs, specifically:
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The LDC Group: Representing Least Developed Countries.
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CARICOM: Ensuring a unified Caribbean voice.
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The ACP Group: Coordinating with African, Caribbean, and Pacific states.
Bilateral Priorities: Colombia, Mexico, and Japan
In the corridors of the summit, Minister Monazard is scheduled for a series of high-stakes bilateral meetings. Sources indicate that talks with representatives from Colombia, Mexico, and Japan will likely focus on regional cooperation and technology transfers.
Furthermore, the Minister will meet with leaders from key global organizations, including:
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UNIDO: To discuss industrial development and modernizing Haiti’s manufacturing.
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UNCTAD: For insights into trade and development trends.
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Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF): To secure support for trade-related technical assistance.
Domestic Continuity
While Minister Monazard defends Haiti’s economic sovereignty in Cameroon, the government ensures continuity at home. Madame Sandra Paulémont, Minister of Planning and External Cooperation, has been designated as the interim Minister of Commerce and Industry until Monazard’s return.
The Strategic Goal: This mission is a cornerstone of the Haitian government’s push to strengthen its position in the global trade system and protect its domestic industries against international volatility.
