Statement by foreign ministry
In response to the president of the Republic’s invitation, the Dominican president came to Haiti to discuss issues such as migratory flow, the status of Haitian workers in the Dominican Republic, the kind of treatment given to Haitian students in the neighbouring country, the situation of Haitian children born in the Dominican Republic and border security.
The meeting between the heads of state was fruitful as well as the work session between the Haitian prime minister, the members of his government, and the members of the Dominican delegation. The statements made by the leaders of both countries showed their willingness to find a quick solution to the various problems affecting Haitians in the Dominican Republic.
Unfortunately, some manipulated individuals demonstrated violently in front of the National Palace and surrounding areas to protest Dominican President Fernandez’s visit, which is contrary to the usual sense of hospitality of the Haitian people.
The government understands the profound significance of these demonstrations due to the reports arriving here on a daily basis regarding the mistreatment and humiliation of Haitians in the Dominican Republic.
However, the government deplores and condemns the acts of violence perpetrated against President Fernandez’s presidential cortege. These acts of violence including the throwing of rocks at the president’s vehicle are intolerable and inexcusable, and can rather delay the normalization of relations between both countries.
The government renews its commitment to the standards of protocol that should exist between civilized nations. The government regrets the hurried departure of President Fernandez at the recommendation of his security services. We strongly believe, however, that the president’s security was not in danger at any time. At the same time, we regret that a visit that started so well had to end in this state of confusion.
Instructions have been given to the concerned services to conduct an investigation to find the authors of these acts of violence and to punish them in accordance with the law.