Guyana-Brazil regional meeting: Countries agree to heightened border patrols to fight drug trafficking, illegal mining

The militaries of Guyana and Brazil have agreed to instituting heightened border patrols aimed at curbing a number of criminal activities that are occurring on the border shared by the two countries.

The 24th Meeting of Military Exchange between Guyana and Brazil concluded late on Thursday with agreement on a number of new understandings aimed at advancing cooperation in areas of mutual concern.
“Among them, heightened simultaneous patrolling along the border strip, aimed at curbing ever-present cross-border criminal activities such as illegal mining, illegal airstrips, drug trafficking, illegal border crossing, and the effects of climate change. Both delegations, in their presentations, found common ground and challenges, resulting in the recognition of the need for the development of a stronger mechanism for communication and coordination against these events,” the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) said on Friday.

This was the first time the exchange was held since the COVID-19 pandemic. It ran for two days, and saw Brigadier General Adriano Fructuoso Da Costa, Commander of the 1st Jungle Infantry Brigade, heading the Brazilian Delegation while Commandant of the Guyana People’s Militia, Colonel Trevor Bowman, headed the local delegation.
Guyana and Brazil established diplomatic relations 53 years ago. When it comes to the border shared by the two countries, and when it comes to cross-border crime, Police are said to be on high alert for persons entering and leaving Guyana illegally by way of the Guyana-Brazil border in Region Nine.
The GDF has said the discussions were fruitful, and allowed for both sides to examine and share strategies and agree on the way forward.

Brigadier General Fructuoso has said he felt the meeting had achieved its objectives, and he is confident that the new understandings would be executed. He expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome which his team received, which he said was testament to the strong bonds of friendship and good relations between the two countries.
“You have a friend in Brazil, and I wish your institution well as it works towards achieving all of its objectives,” he was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, head of the Guyanese Delegation, Colonel Bowman, has said he is satisfied with the conduct of the meeting, and gave personal assurances that he would spare no effort in ensuring that the good relationship which the two armies share is solidified and advanced.
“You accepted our invitation during these difficult times, and we have come here and we have met our objectives. This is evidence of the enduring nature of our friendship,” he asserted.
The 25th Meeting of Military Exchange is scheduled to be held in Brazil next year.