Former president of Costa Rica seeks Antigua-Barbuda's support in OAS
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
ST JOHN’S, Antigua: Former President of
Costa Rica Miguel Angel Rodriguez, on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on Prime
Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Baldwin Spencer to canvass support for his
candidacy to the position of Secretary General of the Organisation of American
States OAS. Former President Rodriguez
outlined that now is a difficult time for the OAS especially in relation to
the matters of Haiti and Venezuela. He said that institution building was of a
necessity and noted that participation of CARICOM countries in building
democracy is very important. It was also
stated that the OAS has a mandate to implement certain aspects of the Free
Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) but it seems that negotiations will continue
for longer periods. He also pointed out that the record of the OAS as it
pertains to human rights has improved tremendously.
Mr. Rodriguez also stated that the OAS can assist small countries like Antigua
and Barbuda in the areas of scholarships and technical assistance. He said the
organisation needs to be more flexible and practical in its operations.
Prime Minister Spencer during the discussion assured Former President
Rodriguez that CARICOM is supporting his candidacy for Secretary General of
the OAS and pointed out that no member of CARICOM or Central America has ever
held the position. The country’s leader also
stated that it is important for a small state to lead the OAS. On the issue of
Haiti, Prime Minister Spencer said that CARICOM had a principled position and
that article 20 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter may be invoked to
address the issue. Prime Minister Spencer
also emphasized that the OAS national offices in CARICOM member states have
played a vital role in development and while acknowledging the financial
constraints of the OAS, he urged that they be strengthened.
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