On behalf of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) and the ACP Secretariat, the Secretary General, Dr. Patrick I. Gomes, has expressed his deep concern about the violence sparked by protests in Haiti. He condemns the perpetration of the violence and deplores the loss of life, many wounded and damage to property.

The Secretary General urges all the parties to refrain from any further action that could exacerbate the situation. He calls on the Haitian authorities to exercise maximum restraint in responding to any acts of provocation by the protestors.

The Secretary General appeals to the Haitian political leadership to exercise its collective responsibility to pursue constructive engagement in order to address the country's pressing challenges. The ACP Group hails the efforts of the United Nations, the international community and regional groups that are supporting efforts to bring a lasting solution to the crisis in Haiti.