Monday January 1st, 2024, as part of the celebration of the 220th anniversary of Haiti's independence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in a note, after a review of the history of Haiti, did not fail to highlight American interference and occupation and condemned the neocolonial practices affecting Haiti.

Russia says it is ready "[...] to further deepen our political dialogue and expand our trade, economic, scientific, technological, humanitarian, cultural and other ties..."

Note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation :

"On January 1, the Republic of Haiti will celebrate the 220th anniversary of declaring independence.

In 1804, Haiti became the first Latin American and Caribbean state to free itself from colonial oppression and embark on the path of sovereign development. This path proved to be challenging and was linked with many years of destructive foreign interference in domestic affairs, including direct interventions. The US Armed Forces occupied Haiti from 1915 to 1934. Unfortunately, the country now faces numerous problems, primarily the complex crime situation, which is fuelled by external factors. Russia strongly condemns the use of neocolonial practices that have repeatedly impacted Haiti.

The relations between Russia and Haiti have always been based on friendship, solidarity, equality and consideration for each other’s interests. We share a commitment to the principles of international law, as formalised in the UN Charter, which includes respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs. We are ready to further deepen our political dialogue and expand our trade, economic, scientific, technological, humanitarian, cultural and other ties. Haitian students receive education at Russian universities funded by the federal budget, and we are confident that they will contribute significantly to the development of their country.

We sincerely congratulate the people of Haiti on this anniversary and wish them peace, prosperity and success in addressing their domestic challenges."

HL/ HaitiLibre