Suriname’s Ramdin elected OAS Secretary General

Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation, Albert Ramdin, was Monday elected as the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS).

Mr. Ramdin’s appointment was confirmed during the 56th General Assembly of the OAS. It is the first time in history that a Surinamese will hold this position. He was supported by Guyana and other member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Ramdin succeeds Paraguayan diplomat Luis Almagro.

Ramdin, who has headed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation since 2020, was unanimously supported by OAS member states.

It was reported that Paraguay decided to withdraw the candidacy of its Foreign Minister, Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, for the position of Secretary General of the OAS.

With his appointment, Ramdin will assume the task of leading the OAS from 2025 to 2030, with the organisation playing a crucial role in promoting democracy, human rights, and social and economic development in the Western Hemisphere.

Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud described Ramdin’s appointment as “a proud and historic moment for the Caribbean.”

“Guyana looks forward to working closely with you in upholding the principles of the OAS Charter and in ensuring the stability and prosperity of our hemisphere,” Persaud said on Facebook.

In a social media post, Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana Liselle Blankendal said, “This is a groundbreaking moment, not just for the Caribbean, but for the entire hemisphere. It signals a shift towards greater inclusivity and recognition of the vital role that CARICOM nations play in regional and global affairs.”

“This milestone reflects the strength, leadership, and diplomatic excellence of our region, and we look forward to the positive impact this leadership will bring to the OAS and beyond.”