Dominican Republic’s president stands resolute on his closing of all borders with Haiti

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The President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, reaffirmed his decision to close all air, sea, and land traffic with neighboring Haiti in response to an ongoing dispute regarding the construction of a canal intended to harness the waters of the Massacre River, which flows through both nations.

In a televised address on Sunday, President Abinader stated that these border closures, which were initiated on Friday, would remain in effect until construction on the canal was halted. The primary aim of the canal project is to divert water from the Massacre River to address a severe drought in Haiti’s Maribaroux plain.

President Abinader emphasized that his government did not seek confrontation but rather aimed to address the instability in Haiti, particularly the pervasive gang violence. He expressed concern that certain individuals, motivated by private interests, were conspiring against the Haitian government’s stability and the security of their shared water resources.

Accusing Haiti of violating a 1929 treaty between the two countries, President Abinader underscored the importance of the Massacre River for Dominican farmers and raised environmental concerns, including potential harm to a wetland ecosystem.

He cautioned against setting a precedent with unilaterally initiated irrigation projects, which could lead to further construction activities that might ultimately harm the river.

The Massacre River derives its name from a historical battle between French and Spanish colonizers and witnessed a tragic mass killing of Haitians by the Dominican army in 1937.

The decision to implement a complete border shutdown came four days after President Abinader announced the suspension of visa issuance to Haitians and the closure of the border near the northern town of Dajabon.

He stressed the importance of international awareness and assistance for Haiti’s challenges, stating, “There is no Dominican solution to Haiti’s problem. We cannot be asked for more than what we already do.”

In response, Haiti’s Prime Minister’s office declined to comment on Sunday, referring to a statement released on Friday that condemned President Abinader’s decision to close all borders, even as negotiations between the two nations were ongoing. The Haitian government expressed its support for the canal project.

Haiti has also sought international assistance in addressing a surge in gang violence. The United States has indicated its intention to submit a U.N. Security Council resolution authorizing Kenya to lead a multinational police force, but as of now, no specific timetable or resolution has been put forth.

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More about Border Closure

• Dominican Republic-Haiti border closure over canal dispute
• Luis Abinader’s televised speech on border closures
• Purpose of the canal project in Haiti
• Concerns raised by President Abinader
• Historical significance of the Massacre River
• United States’ involvement in addressing Haiti’s challenges