The Latin America and Caribbean region’s complex defence and safety issues are under scrutiny at the 2024 Caribbean Nations Security Conference (CANSEC) in Port of Spain.
The aim of the meeting is for these leaders to exchange ideas, identify security challenges, and find possible solutions for the region’s security issues.
Air Vice Marshall of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, Darryl Daniel said the Conference will address critical issues directly affecting the Caribbean, including its response to climate change.
Air Vice Marshall of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, Darryl Daniel said the conference will address critical issues directly affecting the Caribbean, including its response to climate change.
“The dynamic nature of today’s security environment demands nothing less than unified, innovative, and decisive action. Over this period, we have the opportunity to delve into critical issues such as countering multi-domain threats, responding to natural disasters, and reinforcing the tenets of women, peace, and security.”
Commander of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), US Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey, highlighted several of the issues facing the region.
“The threats we face continue to evolve and they have expanded over the last year since the last conference. Non-state actors are using disinformation to wedge into the Americas, obscuring truth to increase their presence and influence. They pursue their objectives by leveraging advance technology and engaging in cybercrime and corrupt practices.”
He called on the leaders to help gather a peace-keeping force to assist Haiti.
“We are collectively committed to keeping the region’s waterways, including the Panama Canal, free, open, and prosperous. Authoritarianism is already here in our shared neighbourhood and is having devastating effects on driving irregular migration and encroaching on the sovereignty or democratic States.”
The Three-Day Conference, which will include plenary sessions addressing the Caribbean’s response to natural disasters and countering threats on multiple domains, continues until Friday.