Above: Haiti President Michel Martelly
By the Caribbean Journal staff
United States Vice President Joe Biden held a phone conversation with Haiti President Michel Martelly on Friday, according to a statement from the White House.
The call continued the pair’s “dialogue on the United States’ long-term support for Haiti’s reconstruction, development, and democratic progress,” according to the statement.
The call is the latest in a series in the last few years between Martelly and Biden.
“The Vice President commended President Martelly for his efforts to reach a negotiated agreement with the Haitian parliament and political parties to allow Haiti to hold elections,” the White House said. “The Vice President recognized that President Martelly made several important concessions in order to reach consensus, and expressed disappointment that Haiti’s Parliament did not pass an electoral law before lapsing on January 12.”
Biden reportedly reiterated the support of the US and the international community as Martelly seeks to organize “timely elections” this year.
He also “reaffirmed that the United States remains Haiti’s committed friend and partner and looks forward to deepening bilateral cooperation as President Martelly’s Administration works to build a more prosperous and secure future for the Haitian people.”
Biden will be hosting a gathering of Caribbean leaders for an energy summit at the White House later this month.