Raina Forbin, Haiti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, is actively representing the country at the 30th Ibero-American Summit held in Madrid from November 4 to 5, 2026. Haiti has been an associate observer state since 2012, and the summit aims to bolster strategic partnerships within the Ibero-American region.
During the summit, Forbin is participating in high-level discussions that include associate observer states and consultative observers. In addition, she is conducting bilateral meetings with various counterparts to advance Haiti’s interests and explore new cooperation avenues.
In a meeting with Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar, Forbin highlighted the Haitian government’s efforts regarding security and upcoming elections. She expressed Haiti’s hope for continued Colombian cooperation, particularly in the agricultural sector. Escobar assured Forbin that Colombia remains committed to strengthening ties with Haiti, despite ongoing restructuring of its diplomatic network. The two officials also discussed enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, and improving air and maritime connectivity.
Forbin also had a significant discussion with El Salvador’s Foreign Minister, Alexandra Hill Tinoco, where they focused on increasing bilateral cooperation in security and combating armed criminal groups. Forbin extended condolences to the Salvadoran government regarding the recent disappearance of four Salvadoran military technicians in Haiti. Hill Tinoco reaffirmed El Salvador’s commitment to support Haiti’s security efforts through both the Salvadoran participation in the Force for Multinational Security and direct bilateral assistance.
The two ministers agreed to share best practices in fighting organized crime, protecting children affected by gang violence, and tackling disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration processes.
Additionally, Forbin met with Andrés Allamand, the Ibero-American Secretary General, to discuss opportunities for enhancing cooperation between Haiti and the Ibero-American Community. Allamand expressed his commitment to mobilizing member states to support Haiti’s identified priority projects.
The summit underscores Haiti’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its diplomatic relationships and gather international support for its development initiatives amidst ongoing challenges.
