Surinamese Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin was elected as the new secretary general of the Organization of American States on Monday, succeeding Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro. This marks the OAS's first Caribbean leader. Ramdin, who has been Suriname's top diplomat since 2020, previously served as the OAS's assistant secretary general for two terms from 2005 to 2015.
During a speech at the OAS general assembly in Washington, Ramdin emphasized the need for greater regional unity, dialogue, sustainable development, and action on climate change, particularly impacting debt-laden Caribbean nations vulnerable to natural disasters. He called for cooperation and mobilization of capabilities to move forward united, not divided.
Ramdin aims to enhance cooperation between the Americas' subregions and stressed the importance of addressing the climate crisis both in development agencies and political discourse.
His election comes at a time when the United States is making significant policy shifts affecting the region, such as imposing tariffs, restructuring foreign aid, and deporting migrants. Ramdin's appointment as the OAS's first Caribbean leader has been welcomed by Caribbean diplomats, who hope it will promote diversity and representation for smaller nations in the Caribbean.
Although Suriname is situated in South America, it maintains close ties with the Caribbean Community. Suriname's President, Chan Santokhi, has commended Ramdin's diplomatic skills and guidance. Suriname has also supported Guyana in a dispute with Venezuela over the border region of Esequibo and opposed U.S. sanctions on Venezuela.
Notably, Venezuela announced its intention to leave the OAS in 2017, but the body has acknowledged representatives from the country's political opposition since. The OAS's current chief, Almagro, congratulated Ramdin and assured a smooth transition as Ramdin assumes his role on May 25, coinciding with Suriname's national election. Almagro praised Ramdin's readiness and awareness of the challenges ahead.