Obama: Much work remains in wake of Haiti quake

Appearing in the Oval Office with Haitian President Michel Martelly on Thursday, President Barack Obama said the US-Haitian relationship has focused on helping Haiti recover from the devastating earthquake that struck four years ago. While security is improving in Haiti, infrastructure is being repaired, schools are reopening and businesses are starting to return, "it has been a very slow and difficult process, and I think we all recognize that we all have a lot more work to do," Obama said. "My message today to the president and the people of Haiti is that the American people are committed to standing with you in this process," he said in remarks prior to the presidents holding their meeting. "We want to make sure that all the children of Haiti are able to lead lives of opportunity, prosperity and security." Obama said he was pleased that Haiti had made progress on a new election law that will "help resolve some of the political roadblocks" and lead to elections this year.Obama said he looked forward to working with Martelly on issues such as human rights, judiciary reform and dealing with corruption."We will continue to stand by Haitian democracy, Haitian leadership and the Haitian people in this slow and steady progress that needs to take place," Obama said.Martelly thanked Obama and the US government "for always standing by the Haitian people." He said he looked forward to discussing with Obama security issues, the fight against narcotics trafficking and "my engagement in building a strong, democratic state."