The CARICOM Secretariat recently welcomed a delegation from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Senior Command and Staff Course Number 20 (SCSC #20) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement with regional security institutions.
During the visit on June 4, the delegation took part in a knowledge-sharing session facilitated by members of the Secretariat’s Crime and Security Programme, said a CARICOM release. It also stated that the exchange provided GDF officers with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of CARICOM’s role in promoting and coordinating regional security initiatives.
CARICOM reports that the session was led by Programme Manager for Crime and Security, Sherwin Stephenson, and Project Officer for Crime and Security, Mareesha Stephens. Through discussions and interactive dialogue, participants explored the Community’s approach to addressing both existing and emerging crime and security issues across the Caribbean.
The release said that the officers were also briefed on the ways in which CARICOM leverages functional cooperation among Member States and regional institutions to strengthen collective responses to security threats and challenges facing the region.
In addition to the technical discussions, the delegation was reportedly given a guided tour of the CARICOM Secretariat, allowing members to learn more about the organisation’s structure, responsibilities and its role in advancing regional integration and cooperation.
According to the Secretariat, the visit highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between CARICOM and regional defence and security agencies. It also reinforced what the Community says is its commitment to promoting coordinated and collective strategies aimed at enhancing crime prevention, security cooperation, and regional stability.
