GDF, Surinamese soldiers focus on joint surveillance, intelligence exchange
Brigadier Bess and Colonel Axeldongen during a presentation of tokens
Brigadier Bess and Colonel Axeldongen during a presentation of tokens

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Suriname Armed Forces have made their first step towards the advancement of tackling common threats and embracing each other to ensure that the border they share and are vested to protect, remain safe and secured.

Commander of the Suriname Armed Forces, Colonel Henri Van Axeldongen, and a delegation are currently in Guyana and are hosted by the GDF.

The delegation visited Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna, on Monday and was greeted by Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and members of his leadership team.

The delegation was privy to a country and security concern brief highlighting the challenges faced and a series of proposals to enhance co-operation to address threats.

During remarks, Colonel Axeldongen noted that the visit will be memorable. It signals an important step towards combatting threats facing both countries.

The officers who participated in the discussion

He referenced the saying ‘a close neighbour is better than a distant relative’, pointing out that the two countries’ proximity provides a platform for embracing each other’s values and sharing information.

“I am very proud to say that this is the best opportunity for both of our nations, and I look forward to working together to enhance security in both our nations. We have the same issues threatening our nations and so our strong partnership will be effective in combatting security threats,” he noted.

Colonel Axeldongen stressed that he is eagerly anticipating enhanced co-operation with his Guyanese counterparts.

Brigadier Bess endorsed the views shared by Colonel Axeldongen. He noted that the delegation’s response to the invitation, as both countries continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, is a testament to the resilience and endurance of the Suriname military.

During bilateral talks, he proposed several measures, including a Joint Intelligence Exchange between the two militaries, which he said was necessary as both countries emerge as players in the oil sector.

He also proposed increased collaboration surveillance on the border, which the two countries share. Brigadier Bess also put forward proposals for training exchange opportunities and invited the Suriname Armed Forces to subscribe to officer training with the GDF.

He also extended the GDF’s support towards establishing a reserve component of the Suriname Military.

The visit from the Surinamese military delegation comes closely on the heels of an official state visit by Suriname President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, on August 17, 2021.

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