Thank you for supporting the Embassy of Haiti’s efforts. As we reflect on 2012 and make plans for 2013, I’d like to express my appreciation to everyone who attended events at the Embassy, inquired about investing in Haitian businesses, imported Haitian products, connected with a Haitian entrepreneur, gave their feedback on our new website and otherwise contributed to our mission. I’d also invite you to stay connected with us in 2013 as it is shaping up to be an exciting year for the Embassy! We have a very robust plan for 2013 and we urge you to participate.

One of my main goals as ambassador is to encourage investment through business diplomacy. We often say “Haiti is open for business.” It is my job to ensure investors and potential partners have the information they need to fuel the business development, economic growth and job creation. To that end, we successfully launched the Ambassador’s Business Diplomacy Roundtable Series. We will continue to serve as a conduit, linking investors here with information they need to successfully collaborate with entrepreneurs, businesses, raw materials, farmers and workers in Haiti.

Another key facet of our mission has been to highlight Haitian art and culture. For one of our many cultural events in 2012, we welcomed actor Jimmy Jean-Louis who screened his French film “Toussaint L’Ouverture.” We were also pleased to welcome Haitian-American elected officials, Haitian Olympians and a youth ambassador program, along with community discussions and several Diaspora events. That was only the beginning. Please check our website often as we have numerous cultural events planned for 2013 that will connect you to Haiti, including a three-month modern art exhibit that we will co-host along with the Dominican Republic at the Art Museum of the Americas.

As always, part of the Embassy’s mandate is to serve and interact with the community. Our plan in 2013 is to continue to host events which encourage a community dialogue. We will also continue to strengthen our services to Haitian citizens. In the coming year, we will host events which highlight the breadth and depth of Haiti’s talents. We strive to showcase different, positive aspects of Haiti, which are often not seen.

If you have suggestions, please use our website feedback form. We welcome and encourage your input.

As always, thank you for your support and I look forward to working with you in 2013.

Best wishes in the New Year,
Ambassador Paul Altidor