From Jamaica Observer

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — The Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Irwin LaRocque Tuesday congratulated Haiti on its 215th anniversary of independence noting that the resilience, courage and determination of Haitians continue to be an inspiration to all.

“This occasion is, indeed, cause for celebration, but it is also a timely reminder of the historic importance of the Haitian Revolution and its continued significance as a symbol of triumph over adversity in the quest for liberty, equality and control of national destiny,” LaRocque said in his congratulatory message to President Jovenel Moise.

He said Haiti’s leadership as it represented CARICOM at major hemispheric and global fora, including the G7 and the Quartet of the Community for Latin American and Caribbean Countries (CELAC), earlier this year was highly appreciated.

“These were important opportunities to articulate the interests and concerns of the Community to the most influential global actors,’ LaRocque said, adding that the 15-member grouping was looking forward to Haiti’s continued efforts to participate fully in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), which allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour and services across the region.

He said Port au Prince’s participation “will be of great assistance in creating an enabling environment for enhancing the welfare and advancement of all its citizens”. Haiti gained its political independence on January 1, 1804 after Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a former slave, led the revolutionaries at the Battle of Vertieres on November 18, 1803 where the French forces were defeated.

For more on this story go to: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/CARICOM_congratulates_Haiti_on_anniversary_of_independence?profile=1373