‘Real and present danger’ – 1, 500 soldiers from over 15 countries in Guyana for Tradewinds 23

Several regional organisations are scheduled to participate in Tradewinds 23, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Regional Security System (RSS), the Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).

Guyana’s Army Chief, Brigadier Omar Khan also addressed the launch event on Saturday and highlighted the common vision for regional security shared among the participating countries and agencies.

“I encourage all troops to make use of the opportunities these exercises will bring.

“For Guyana, a budding oil-producing nation, this exercise comes at a significant point in history and we are grateful for this opportunity,” Brigadier Khan said.

Part of the exercise will deal with oil spill response readiness.

And Major General William Thigpen, who is the Commanding General of U.S. Army South, reiterated that the U.S presence here is to demonstrate an enduring commitment to the disaster response and preparedness of the region.

He said the aim was and will always be a “safe and secure environment for the shared neighbourhood.”