Ankara: Organization of American States Secretary General Albert Ramdin has called for accelerated international efforts to address security and election issues in Haiti, highlighting them as the 'two most immediate and interconnected priorities' for the nation.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ramdin made this appeal at the conclusion of a high-level inter-American and international delegation visit to Haiti. He emphasized the importance of renewing the mandate of the UN-backed Gang Suppression Force (GSF), while stressing that renewal alone would not suffice. The GSF, Ramdin noted, requires adequate personnel, financing, logistical support, and operational capabilities to be effective. He urged OAS member states and international partners to honor their commitments to support the force.

Ramdin outlined several immediate objectives, including reducing the territorial control of armed gangs, securing the main route to the international airport, ensuring sustained access to the airport and port, and restoring secure access toward southern Haiti. He also emphasized the urgency of preparing for the presidential and legislative elections scheduled for December 13, calling for intensified citizen registration, public information, and voter mobilization campaigns.

The mission yielded concrete outcomes, such as Haiti's formal accession to CAF -- Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, which will enhance the country's access to financing and technical cooperation. Additionally, the OAS and Japan signed a $3 million cooperation agreement to bolster civil identification efforts, which includes acquiring 350,000 biometric identification cards and expanding mobile registration services.

Ramdin assured that the OAS will continue to monitor Haiti's security and electoral preparations. He plans to report to the OAS Permanent Council on August 26 and will convene the next meeting of the Group of Friends of Haiti on September 4.