COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE

Switzerland pledges contribution for
OAS Special Mission in Haiti

Press Release (GA-10-03) June 10, 2003

Ambassador Christian Hauswirth, Head of the Swiss Permanent Observer Delegation to the Organization of American States (OAS) General Assembly, announced in Santiago, Chile, today a US$31,000 contribution to the OAS Special Mission for Strengthening Democracy in Haiti. The contribution will finance a radio campaign promoting democracy, respect for diversity of opinion and honesty in elections.

The Swiss contribution will be used to produce and air radio spots. Since radio is the most important mass communication medium in Haiti, the spots will reach a large part of the population in the upcoming elections.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Hauswirth stressed Switzerland’s support for political dialogue in Haiti and its appreciation of the work of the OAS. “Switzerland commends the dedication of the OAS and its Special Mission led by David Lee from Canada to finding solutions to the political crisis in Haiti. We believe the media play a crucial role in promoting democratic principles and values to everybody. The political participation of all people is at the core of any democratic process.”

Ambassador Luigi Einaudi, the OAS Assistant Secretary General, said contributions from OAS member and observer states are important in reinforcing the OAS’ role in finding solutions to some of the Hemisphere’s most pressing problems. He welcomed Switzerland’s pledge, emphasizing that “this donation comes at a critical time to stimulate much needed increased dialogue among all actors in Haiti.”

Also present at the ceremony was Haiti’s Ambassador to Chile, Guy Lamothe, who said that he was “grateful for such a contribution, which is an important factor for stabilization in Haiti.”

**********