Colombian president visits southern Haiti as country battles surge in gang violence

Colombian President Gustavo Petro visited Haiti to strengthen ties and discuss joint projects in agriculture, technology, and the economy, focusing on stability and development. Amid a surge in gang violence, with over 5,600 killed last year, Petro’s visit comes as Haiti’s government seeks international support, while facing challenges from a lack of funds and personnel for U.N.-backed missions to contain violence and maintain security in the country. Petro’s visit follows a court appearance by 17 former Colombian soldiers accused in the 2021 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse, with their hearing postponed and no trial date set.

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