Under the leadership of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, a ceremony to present certificates and pay symbolic tributes was held at the Villa d’Accueil in honor of the Haitian medical brigade deployed in solidarity with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, recently struck by two earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.0.

These two earthquakes caused significant material damage, estimated at nearly US$20 billion, particularly affecting buildings and tourist infrastructure, and, according to the Venezuelan government, resulted in 5,346 deaths and 16,740 injuries.

The Prime Minister commended the mission members for their commitment "Today, the Republic pays tribute to the women and men who chose to answer humanity’s call. You have not only treated wounds, you have restored confidence, extended a helping hand, and reminded us, through your presence, that no people should face adversity alone."

Led by Minister of Health Sinal Bertrand, the delegation, composed of 29 healthcare professionals (emergency physicians, orthopedists, anesthesiologists, and surgeons), was deployed as part of the historical ties of friendship and mutual support between the two nations. At the end of its mission, it notably reopened the operating theater at the Flora Gonzalez Integrated Center, which had been out of service for two years, enabling 325 surgical procedures to be performed, while also providing psychosocial support to 1,700 beneficiaries.

The brigade also donated several tons of medications and medical supplies. Minister Sinal Bertrand further announced the shipment of an additional seven tons of food kits, which will be delivered to Venezuelan authorities by CARICOM ambassadors.

IH/ iciHaiti