Several South American countries, including Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Colombia, have endorsed Albert Ramdin as the candidate for Secretary General of the OAS. Ramdin’s extensive experience in diplomacy, including his previous role as Assistant Secretary General, is seen as vital for addressing contemporary challenges. The election will occur on March 10, with the current Secretary General, Luis Almagro, completing his term on May 25 after a decade in office.
Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Colombia have united in support of Albert Ramdin, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, as the candidate for the Secretary General position of the Organization of American States (OAS). Having previously served as the OAS Assistant Secretary General, Ramdin is regarded as well-suited to tackle current issues and provide a renewed outlook. The election will take place on March 10, featuring Paraguayan Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano as a competitor. The incumbent, Luis Almagro, will conclude his term on May 25 after ten years in office.
The foreign ministries of the endorsing countries issued a joint statement highlighting that this decision signifies a pivotal movement toward regional unity amid modern geopolitical challenges. They emphasized that this is a historic chance for both the organization and the Caribbean region, which may lead the OAS for the first time.
The ministries remarked that “Minister Albert Ramdin, with his vast experience in diplomacy, including his past role as Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, is uniquely positioned to address the contemporary challenges facing our countries, bringing a fresh perspective that reflects the realities and aspirations of the Caribbean region and the Americas as a whole.”
Almagro’s tenure has been contentious; he faced a 2022 investigation over claims of a consensual relationship with an assistant. Additionally, his involvement in the rise of Jeanine Áñez in Bolivia during 2019 remains controversial, especially as Áñez currently faces pre-trial incarceration.
In summary, the endorsement of Albert Ramdin by Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Colombia showcases a commitment to regional unity and a fresh leadership outlook at the OAS. With an election scheduled for March 10, Ramdin’s extensive diplomatic experience places him in a favorable position amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges. This moment offers an unprecedented opportunity for the Caribbean to lead the organization.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
