Organization of American States pays tribute to Sir Ronald Sanders

The Organization of American States (OAS) has lauded Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders for his successful presidency of the Permanent Council, the governing body of the organisation.

In praising Sir Ronald's stewardship of the council, the current chairman, Argentina's Ambassador Juan JosÈ Acuri, speaking in the presence of high representatives of all 34 member states said: "Ambassador Sanders successfully led the activities of the council in the past three months. During that period, the authority held 14 meetings to discuss various issues, including the financial situation of the OAS, the strategic vision, the modernisation of management of the secretariat, and the adoption of the programme budget of the OAS for the second year, the biennium 2015-2016."

Sir Ronald had made the financial circumstances of the OAS and its future a theme of his presidency.

The OAS Council also recalled the pivotal role Sanders played in helping to mediate a solution to a political and constitutional stalemate in Haiti in early February that threatened civil strife and instability.

Responding briefly, the Antigua and Barbuda ambassador called for the Permanent Council to reorient itself to its essential role as a governing body of the organisation and to restore its importance in guiding and managing the affairs of the OAS.

Sir Ronald said: "This is vital if the organisation is to deliver on its obligations to the people of its member states."