As the crisis resulting from the illegal overthrow of the government of Haiti approaches its fourth month, I write to express support for the efforts of the Organization of American States thus for to facilitate negotiations between the parties, to press both sides to reach a just and viable arrangement and to prepare for humanitarian relief of those most severely affected by the embargo.

I urge the OAS and its member states to redouble these efforts so that the constitutional order may be fully reestablished and the embargo ended at the earliest possible moment.

In the meantime, I wish also to urge that all possible measures be taken now to enable the non-governmental organizations that work in Haiti to avail themselves of the humanitarian exemptions provided for in the embargo so that further supplies of food and medicines can be assured safe entry and unimpeded distribution throughout the country.

Without new provisions of these essential commodities, as well as the fuel for their distribution and the oversight needed to guarantee compliance with their humanitarian purpose, there is every likelihood that an already grave situation could rapidly degenerate into an intolerable human tragedy. This must not happen.

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