UK-Caribbean Heads of Defence Conference: “Refined effort” being taken to enhance regional security – GDF Chief

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) recently hosted the United Kingdom and Caribbean Heads of Defence Conference during which there was a refined commitment to enhance regional security.
This is according to the GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan. During a recent media engagement, Guyana Times asked the Army Chief about the outcome of the conference.
Brigadier Khan said, “There is a working group that has been identified, where several decisions were made, for us to make suggestions on how we could enhance our collaboration towards regional security. Based on the output, they are now going to study those recommendations and we are going to discuss that further. But all of this points to a more refined effort to enhance regional security.”
The fourth United Kingdom and Caribbean Heads of Defence Conference concluded on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 in Georgetown. The two-day event brought together representatives from countries across the region to deliberate on a range of mutual security issues.
According to the GDF, there was a unanimous recommitment from all participants to continue their collaborative efforts in addressing shared challenges.
During remarks at the conclusion of the conference, the Guyanese Chief of Staff praised the valuable contributions of all the delegates and acknowledged the honour of hosting counterparts from various nations. He highlighted the importance of international collaboration on mutual interests, and noted that this forum provided an ideal platform to celebrate successes and address challenges for future conferences.

“As we reflect on the achievements of this conference, it reaffirms the strength of our partnerships and the commitment to addressing security challenges collectively. This collaboration is essential for the prosperity and stability of our respective nations,” Brigadier Khan remarked.
Meanwhile, Chief-of-Defence Staff for the United Kingdom, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin expressed his gratitude to Guyana for hosting the event. Against the backdrop of increased global volatility, Admiral Radakin emphasised the importance of a peaceful and secure Caribbean region, where nations, irrespective of size, collaborate to address shared challenges and cultivate individual and collective strengths.
“Our discussions covered serious organised crime, intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and hydrography. In light of the evolving global landscape, the Chiefs and I are more convinced than ever that global stability is best served by a cooperative and secure Caribbean,” Admiral Radakin said during the concluding remarks.
As part of the two-day conference, participating delegates witnessed a capability display hosted at the Coast Guard Headquarters at Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
The fifth United Kingdom and Caribbean Heads of Defence Conference is scheduled to take place in the Dominican Republic in 2025. The anticipation is high for continued discussions, further strengthening regional cooperation, and finding innovative solutions to the security challenges faced by the Caribbean nations. (G8)