Caribbean Milestone: Albert Ramdin Elected OAS Secretary General

Albert Ramdin, Surinamese Foreign Minister, has been elected as the new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), becoming the first Caribbean leader to hold the position. His leadership is expected to increase representation for smaller Caribbean nations, addressing issues like debt, crime, and climate change.

Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname, has made history by being elected as the new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). His election marks the first time a leader from the Caribbean has assumed this role.

Ramdin, 66, who has been Surinam's top diplomat since 2020 and previously served as the OAS' assistant secretary general, will lead the organization until 2030. Known for his push toward enhanced organizational efficiency, Ramdin has emphasized the importance of better support for Haiti amidst its ongoing turmoil.

Leaders and diplomats from the Caribbean Community hope Ramdin's leadership will foster greater representation for smaller nations within the OAS. His appointment comes amid geopolitical tensions, as Suriname opposes Washington's Venezuela sanctions and supports Guyana in a territorial dispute with Venezuela.

(With inputs from agencies.)