Diplomatic Tensions Surge as France Criticizes Haiti's Leadership

Haiti's foreign minister confronted France's ambassador following French President Macron's critical remarks on Haiti's leadership ousting the prime minister amid gang violence. Macron's comments stirred outrage in Haiti, highlighting its historical grievances with France over colonial-era reparations. France pledges support to restore security and facilitate elections in Haiti.

Diplomatic tensions have flared between Haiti and France after Haitian authorities summoned the French ambassador to discuss comments made by President Emmanuel Macron. The French leader's remarks, made during his return from the G20 summit in Brazil, criticized the Haitian transitional presidential council's decision to dismiss the prime minister, labeling it as 'completely dumb.'

Macron's comments, which blamed Haitians for the nation's challenges due to drug trafficking and praised former Prime Minister Garry Conille, have ignited a wave of outrage in Haiti. The island nation, a former French colony, declared independence in 1804 after paying a century-long debt to France, a sum activists now argue has contributed to Haiti's enduring economic woes.

In response to the burgeoning controversy, France has reaffirmed its commitment to Haiti by pledging funds through a U.N. mission to restore security. Additionally, France plans to support language education for troops and has guaranteed its support in helping Haiti conduct future elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)