Haiti has taken an initial step toward dialogue with the Dominican Republic in an effort to improve strained bilateral relations. Jean-Victor Harvel, Haiti’s new Foreign Minister, held a meeting with Dominican Ambassador to Haiti, Faruk Miguel Castillo, in the Haitian capital.

According to the digital outlet Haiti Libre, the meeting was described as a “constructive exchange” where common issues aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries were discussed.

Context of Tension

This rapprochement comes at a critical moment. The Dominican Republic has maintained a closed air border with Haiti and is implementing a mass deportation plan. The Dominican government aims to repatriate 10,000 Haitians weekly, with a goal of deporting 500,000 within a year.

Meanwhile, the Dominican Minister of the Presidency has expressed the country’s willingness to engage in dialogue in response to an initiative by Haiti’s new Prime Minister, Alix Didier.

Path Toward Understanding

The meeting represents an initial step toward understanding amid a historically tense bilateral relationship. While Haiti and the Dominican Republic share the island of Hispaniola, they face common challenges such as migration, border security, and trade.

Although the dialogue is a positive development, significant challenges remain in easing tensions and building a more stable relationship between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.