Wednesday during a phone conversation, President Michel Martelly held talks with Joe Biden, the U.S. Vice President, about the long-term support of the United States to Haiti's reconstruction, its development and the consolidation of its democracy.

President Martelly stressed the importance of elections in the consolidation of Haiti’s democratic foundation. The Vice President Biden for his part welcomed President Martelly’s commitment to continue working to further strengthen Haiti’s democratic institutions, including by maintaining a strong and independent legislative branch and commended President Martelly for his efforts to work with the Haitian parliament and political parties to resolve outstanding issues, and support the work of the Transitional College of the Permanent Electoral Council in setting a date to hold elections.

In this perspective, the two men agreed that open dialogue with all relevant Haitian stakeholders is necessary so that elections can be held without further delay.

President Martelly shared with the Vice President the efforts, that his administration undertakes to fight against corruption. They also discussed the modifications to be made in the travel warnings issued by the State Department in accordance with the gradual improvement in the security situation in Haiti.

At the end of exchanges, Vice President Biden reiterated that the United States remains a committed friend and partner of Haiti and looks forward to deepening our cooperation as Haiti works to build a more prosperous and secure future for its people.

S/ HL/ HaitiLibre