Blinken says a multinational force is needed to help Haiti’s National Police restore order

By DÁNICA COTO
Associated Press

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken says a multinational force is needed to help Haiti’s National Police as he echoed recent appeals made by United Nations officials who warn that the country’s insecurity is worsening. The U.N. independent expert for Haiti says the country desperately needs between 1,000 and 2,000 international police experts trained to combat armed gangs. Blinken briefly spoke about Haiti and other issues Wednesday during a trip to Trinidad and Tobago. The twin-island nation hosted a three-day conference held by the 15-member Caribbean trade bloc known as Caricom. Blinken also pledged nearly $5.5 million to help small farmers increase their productivity and access technology as the region fights climate change.