The Haitian population is willing to pay a high price for the construction of the irrigation canal on the Massacre River to irrigate agricultural lands. President Luis Abinader's extreme and hasty decision to completely close the borders between the two countries is seen by Haitians as a source of motivation rather than a punishment. Eight days after the border closure, Haitians are more determined than ever to continue the work with the means at hand.

While we are not unaware of the direct and indirect consequences of Luis Abinader's measure on Haiti, Haitians are prepared to enter a second week with the borders closed. The Haitian government is also not inclined to give in to the Dominicans in their strategy to force a halt to the project.