Haiti and Benin Forge Stronger Ties with New MOU to Combat Organized Crime and Boost Cooperation

On January 11, 2025, Haiti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, and Benin’s Foreign Minister, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, signed a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance bilateral cooperation. The agreement aims to strengthen the fight against organized crime and related threats while fostering broader collaboration across various sectors.

The MOU includes provisions for joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, training programs, and mutual military support in times of security challenges. This pact underscores a shared commitment to addressing pressing security concerns and fortifying the relationship between the two nations.

Jean-Baptiste’s visit to Benin from January 8 to 10, 2025, laid the groundwork for this historic agreement. During his stay, he attended the First Meeting of Foreign Ministers from Benin and CARICOM Member States, met with President Patrice Talon of Benin, and engaged in strategic discussions with key government officials overseeing defense and internal security.

In addition to security cooperation, the ministers announced plans to bolster diplomatic relations. Highlights include Haiti’s intention to appoint an ambassador to Benin and potentially reopen its embassy in the country. Jean-Baptiste also urged Benin to establish diplomatic representation in Haiti, emphasizing the importance of fostering closer ties.

The partnership extends beyond security, touching on technical, cultural, educational, and scientific cooperation. Both nations plan to develop programs focusing on agriculture, youth engagement, sports, trade, and diaspora relations. Additionally, the ministers discussed ways to enhance Haiti’s relationship with the African Union, with Benin pledging continued support for Haiti’s security forces in their fight against crime and terrorism.

This agreement marks a significant step toward deepening the connection between Haiti and Benin, two nations with shared historical and cultural bonds, and sets the stage for a stronger and more cooperative future.