As part of the commemoration of the devastating earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale, which on January 12, 2010, according to official figures, killed 222,570 people, injured 300,572, and left 1.6 million homeless in just 35 seconds, Laurent Saint Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), participated in the official memorial ceremony held at the National Palace on the Champ de Mars. Also present were Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, members of the government, Vladimir Paraison, Acting Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH), Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H), Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier, members of the High Command, and senior officials from the public administration.

This solemn ceremony, reflecting the renewed commitment of the highest authorities to strengthen national unity, promote sustainable reconstruction, and consolidate the country's resilience and stability in the face of current and future challenges, provided an opportunity to pay a moving tribute to the thousands of lives lost and to reaffirm the unwavering solidarity of the State with the bereaved families and the entire Haitian people. As a sign of respect, remembrance, and national gratitude, Laurent Saint Cyr laid a wreath in memory of the victims of January 12.

In his address to the Nation, President Laurent Saint Cyr solemnly and hopefully emphasized the imperative of remembrance and collective commitment:

"On this Day of Remembrance, let's commit ourselves together never to forget, to better prepare ourselves, to unite around the common good, and to build a safer, more united, and more resilient country. May the memory of the victims of January 12th illuminate our choices, inspire our collective action, and strengthen our resolve to act together, with responsibility and a sense of duty to the state, in order to build a better future for all. Haiti can rise again. Haiti must rise again. Haiti will rise again, if we collectively choose responsibility, dialogue, and action."

For his part, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé emphasized the national significance of this moment of remembrance and the need for reconstruction founded on unity and hope.

"On this day of remembrance, the Nation bows before the memory of the lives lost and shares the grief of the bereaved families. Mourning remains, but so does hope. Together, let"s commit to building a strong Haiti, founded on peace, stability, and solidarity. Peace to the deceased. Courage to the survivors. Faith in the future of Haiti."

This commemoration reflects a renewed commitment by the highest authorities of the State to strengthen national unity, promote sustainable reconstruction, and consolidate the country's resilience and stability in the face of current and future challenges.

HL/ HaitiLibre