NEW YORK – In a significant development for Caribbean security, the inaugural contingents of the multinational Gang Suppression Force (GSF) are scheduled to commence operations in Haiti this April. This deployment forms a critical component of a broader international initiative aimed at reestablishing security and governmental stability in the crisis-affected nation.
The timeline was confirmed by GSF Special Representative Jack Christofides following high-level discussions with Dominican Republic Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez in New York. Minister Álvarez underscored the critical necessity for rapid deployment, emphasizing his government’s steadfast endorsement of the mission’s objectives.
Christofides provided further operational details, indicating that a complete deployment of the international force is anticipated by October. Financial backing for the mission has been secured, with funding authorized for an initial twelve-month operational period. The bilateral meeting also served as a platform to evaluate the mission’s organizational framework and advance logistical coordination.
In a gesture of diplomatic appreciation, Christofides extended gratitude to the Dominican Republic for its collaborative support and disclosed intentions to conduct an official visit to Santo Domingo upon formally assuming his duties in Haiti. Concurrently, Foreign Minister Álvarez engaged in separate talks with Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the United Nations Special Representative and head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). Their discussions centered on enhancing ongoing collaboration and the impending renewal of BINUH’s mandate, which is due to expire on January 31.
Reaffirming its role as a key regional partner, the Dominican Republic pledged continued support for critical mission components, including facilitating medical evacuations and offering its territory as a logistical hub for GSF operations.