PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haiti has welcomed the “dynamic collaboration” with the United States on security and other issues following discussions between the country’s Defence Minister Jean Michel Moïse and a delegation led by the US Ambassador to Haiti, Dennis Hankin, on Monday.

A statement issued following the talks noted that the meeting demonstrates the mutual commitment to consolidating a modern and professional military institution, serving Haiti’s national security and sustainable development.

It said during the discussions, several areas of collaboration were addressed, including the partnership programme with the Louisiana National Guard, described as a key tool for strengthening the capacities of the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H) and promoting technical and strategic exchanges.

The meeting also discussed increasing personnel through the training of new soldiers, marking an essential step in the expansion and professionalisation of the FAd’H as well as respect for human rights by members of the security forces, an essential pillar to ensure a responsible military institution that respects democratic values.

The talks were also attended by the Deputy Chief of Security Cooperation, Major Joseph Callaway, and centered on the modernisation and strengthening of the FAd’H.

The statement quoted Moïse as welcoming “this dynamic collaboration with the United States, which strengthens the foundations of a lasting partnership for a modern and efficient military force, responding to national and regional security challenges.”