Hon. Florencio Marin Jr., Minister of National Defence and Border Security, along with Hon. Oscar Mira, Minister of State; Colonel Anthony Velasquez, Deputy Commander of the Belize Defence Force; and Lieutenant Commandant Alma Pinelo, Acting Vice Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard, recently returned from the XVI Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas, held in Mendoza, Argentina.
The CDMA is the leading defense forum in the Western Hemisphere, bringing together top national security and defense officials every two years to tackle regional challenges and build strong partnerships. This year’s conference focused on the responsible use of artificial intelligence, as well as climate and environmental issues from a defense standpoint.
From October 13-16, Belize’s delegation joined representatives from 23 countries to discuss and enhance cooperation on regional security, peace, and mutual support. Led by Hon. Marin Jr., the team reaffirmed Belize’s commitment to UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, which advocates for the active participation of women in the Belize Armed Forces.
The delegation also highlighted Belize’s focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, emphasizing environmental protection as a key element of national security. Additionally, Belize reiterated its resolve to combat transnational organized crime by collaborating with regional partners, advancing the use of modern technology, and strengthening ties with CARICOM and the OAS.