GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC-Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has underscored the importance of the recently concluded multinational military exercise – Exercise Tradewinds 2023, and the role it has played in promoting strong defense and security relations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Thursday, Phillips said that Guyana was proud to host the multinational military exercise for a third time, especially since it fosters knowledge-sharing and diplomatic ties among the armed forces and showcases the nation’s military readiness and commitment to regional security initiatives.
Exercise Tradewinds 2023 was hosted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in collaboration with the U.S. Southern Command- (SOUTHCOM).
More than 1,500 personnel from the United States and 21 partner nations have completed what will most likely be regarded as a landmark experience in their military careers.
‘What we have seen in Guyana over the last two weeks is a reinforcement of 38 years of commitment towards strengthening transnational partnerships and coordination through combined capacity-building of our military personnel to build adequate defenses against ever-evolving crises and security threats that transcend our borders,’ the Prime Minister said.
Phillips, also President, highlighted the support of the US Southern Command and expressed appreciation for its dedication and cooperation on security and defense matters.
“The Government of Guyana commends and extends gratitude to the continued sponsorship and stewardship of the US Southern Command in its assurance to work with the Caribbean Region to strengthen regional cooperation and stability while improving the efficacy of responses to security threats prevalent in the region.”
Turning his attention to human rights, the Prime Minister remarked that the additional focus and awareness incorporated into the exercise aligns with the government’s strategy for strengthening the country’s security and defense capacity.
He said the Government of Guyana is committed to the overall well-being of its people, with a strong focus on creating safer communities for all. ‘Therefore, the Tradewinds 2023 exercise aligns with our commitment to achieving these goals, particularly regarding training our security personnel and improving overall defense capabilities.”
The Senior Government Official explained that including human rights principles is a promising indication that our security forces intend to be the forerunners of our safety and champions of protecting everyone’s human rights.
“Our security forces must work hand-in-hand with civil society, human rights organizations, and independent oversight bodies to ensure that allegations of human rights violations are thoroughly investigated and addressed. They must uphold human rights principles, demonstrate authentic leadership, and contribute to creating a just and harmonious society.”
Phillips stated that the Caribbean Community has identified four critical areas of security interest in 2022: firearms trafficking, cyber security, human trafficking, and maritime security, and has committed to strengthening relationships among member states to address these issues holistically.
As a result, the mandate of Exercise Tradewinds fits into this goal, and the efforts to pursue effective and efficient collaborative alternatives will continue.
Noting how the advent of the digital age has affected the security of borders, the Prime Minister pointed out that, more than ever, collaborative efforts between countries are necessary to confront the increasingly sophisticated security issues effectively.
“In today’s world, particularly with the advent of technology, many threats no longer recognize borders, which therefore begs the need for collaborative efforts between nations to address security challenges that transcend boundaries, such as terrorism, organized crime, cyber threats, and trafficking of illicit goods.”
“Our interconnectedness, particularly within the CARICOM region, therefore, means that the safety of our people is intricately linked, so addressing these matters as a collective becomes paramount.”
The annual Tradewinds exercise, sponsored by US Southern Command, commenced on July 25th with the participation of more than 1,500 troops from 21 nations.
This year’s event marked the third time it was held in Guyana.
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