The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the government has not authorized any reception center for migrants, nor has the IOM requested it, but that an offer of that organization to local authorities in the province of La Altagracia, for the re-launching of an office established since last December in the area, was distorted.

In this regard, the ministry specified that the IOM office for attention, reference and resources provides assistance to vulnerable people in the area.

This support, it said, helps to lighten the burden of the Dominican State in dealing with irregular immigration and in no way hampers the application of the General Migration Law.

According to the note, the IOM has been an important partner for the Dominican State, providing cooperation to strengthen the institutional framework in migratory matters and has never obstructed the State in the exercise of its sovereign powers.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs invited the national press to exercise responsible journalism, confirming information to avoid disseminating fake news that may cause deep concern or unfounded fears among citizens.

Likewise, it reaffirmed his commitment to the defense of sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and recalled that President Luis Abinader has been categorical about his commitment to put the national interest at the forefront, when referring to the complex situation in neighboring Haiti.

pll/lam/mpv