Albert Ramdin, Foreign Minister of Suriname, has been elected Secretary-General of the OAS for the 2025-2030 term, succeeding Luis Almagro. His election occurred during a Special Session of the OAS General Assembly, and he is expected to address various critical issues facing the region. Both COFCOR and the U.S. have expressed confidence in his leadership capabilities.
Suriname’s Foreign Minister, Albert Ramdin, has been elected as the new Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS) for the term 2025-2030. His election, which took place during the 56th Special Session of the OAS General Assembly on Monday, was achieved by acclamation following the withdrawal of Rubén Ramírez, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister. Ramdin will succeed Luis Almagro, who has held the position since 2015.
The Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) congratulated Mr. Ramdin, acknowledging that his election reflects the confidence member states place in him. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expressed assurance that Ramdin’s extensive experience in foreign policy, including a previous role as OAS Assistant Secretary-General, makes him well-prepared to lead the organization amid various challenges concerning peace, security, and socio-economic development in the Americas.
Further affirming this sentiment, COFCOR stated that Ramdin would uphold the OAS Charter and adeptly address regional challenges, contributing to a vision of a peaceful and prosperous hemisphere. The U.S. government has also congratulated Ramdin, expressing a commitment to collaborate with him in defending democracy and advancing human rights and economic prosperity across the Americas.
In a follow-up statement, the U.S. highlighted the importance of regional stability and reiterated that a secure and prosperous hemisphere is paramount for advancing national interests. The sentiment included a focus on strengthening alliances with democratic partners to tackle shared challenges such as illegal migration and transnational crime, while addressing the authoritarian regimes in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua.
Luis Almagro, the outgoing Secretary-General, received commendation for his leadership in defending democracy against undemocratic elements in the region. Mr. Ramdin’s election signifies a critical opportunity for the OAS as stakeholders look forward to his leadership in tackling vital issues that will shape the organization’s direction in the coming years.
The election of Albert Ramdin as the Secretary-General of the OAS signifies a pivotal transition for the organization and reflects the trust that member states have placed in his capabilities. With strong endorsements from regional partners and the United States, Ramdin is expected to navigate complex challenges regarding democracy, human rights, and regional stability effectively. As he steps into this significant role, the expectations for his leadership are high, with hopes for a prosperous future for the Americas.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
