The top UN envoy to Haiti voiced belief on Wednesday that the impoverished Caribbean state enjoys "a remarkable opportunity for change."
Hedi Annabi, head of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), briefed the UN Security Council in an open debate on the latest developments in the country.
"Political dialogue lies at the heart of the stabilization process. A peacekeeping operation can succeed only if there is a genuine will for change within the host country," Annabi told the council meeting.
He said that the UN is encouraged by the continuing efforts by the Government to "foster constructive dialogue," and "a much- needed improvement in collaboration between the executive and legislative branches of government."
"At a time when Haiti faces difficult choices, but also enjoys a valuable opportunity to advance, these positive trends must be strengthened," he said. "The country cannot afford renewed political and institutional paralysis of the kind that afflicted it in 2008."
Annabi noted that the past year has seen continued progress in addressing threats in rural and urban areas, and further development of Haiti's own security capabilities.
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton attended the meeting in his capacity as UN Special Envoy to Haiti.
Annabi thanked Clinton for his "willingness to lend his unique prestige and abilities to Haiti's quest for a better future."
"His involvement will be invaluable in promoting the country's socio-economic development," Annabi said.
Established in June 2004 by the Security Council, MINUSTAH succeeded a Multinational Interim Force (MIF) authorized by the Security Council in February 2004 after President Bertrand Aristide departed Haiti for exile in the aftermath of an armed conflict which spread to several cities across the country.
MINUSTAH's mandate is to restore a secure and stable environment, to promote the political process, to strengthen Haiti 's government institutions and rule-of-law-structures, as well as to promote and to protect human rights.