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

by Michael Nguyen
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Border Closure

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Border Closure

Why did the President of the Dominican Republic close the borders with Haiti?

President Luis Abinader closed the borders with Haiti due to a dispute over the construction of a canal that aims to divert water from the Massacre River. This dispute led to concerns about shared resources and environmental damage.

What is the purpose of the canal project?

The canal project’s primary goal is to use water from the Massacre River to alleviate a drought in Haiti’s Maribaroux plain.

What concerns does President Abinader have regarding the canal construction?

President Abinader is concerned about the potential violation of a 1929 treaty, the impact on Dominican farmers who rely on the Massacre River, and the environmental consequences, including damage to a wetland ecosystem.

What prompted the complete border shutdown?

The decision to shut down all borders came after President Abinader suspended visa issuance to Haitians and closed the border near the town of Dajabon. It was made to raise international awareness and assistance for Haiti’s challenges.

How has Haiti responded to these border closures?

Haiti’s government expressed support for the canal project and issued a statement condemning President Abinader’s decision to close all borders while negotiations were ongoing.

What is the historical significance of the Massacre River?

The Massacre River was named after a historical battle between French and Spanish colonizers and was the site of a tragic mass killing of Haitians by the Dominican army in 1937.

Is there international involvement in addressing the situation in Haiti?

The United States has indicated its intention to submit a U.N. Security Council resolution authorizing Kenya to lead a multinational police force to help quell gang violence in Haiti, but no specific timetable or resolution has been provided yet.

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