Charles Mariotti urges Dominican government to advocate for HOPE and HELP program extensions

Santo Domingo.- Charles Mariotti, a member of the Dominican Liberation Party’s (PLD) Political Committee and former Secretary General, has called on the Dominican Government to intensify diplomatic efforts in Washington to secure the extension of the HOPE (Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement) and HELP (Haitian Economic Lift Program) initiatives. These U.S.-backed programs are deemed vital for Haiti’s economic recovery and the Dominican Republic’s economic stability.
Mariotti emphasized the interdependence created by these programs, which allow duty-free textile exports from Haiti to the U.S., fostering a production chain that benefits both nations. Dominican companies, many of which export up to 20% of their output to Haiti, rely on this arrangement. The programs also support sectors such as textiles, transportation, and manufacturing, with Dominican firms combining capital-intensive production domestically and labor-intensive processes in Haiti.
He further highlighted the need to encourage Dominican settlement and employment in border regions, where local companies generate jobs that benefit both economies. Mariotti’s appeal underscores the broader importance of maintaining Haiti’s stability to sustain economic ties and regional development.