TO bolster regional stability and security, Major General Evan L. Pettus, Commander of the 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern), is currently in Guyana on an official visit aimed at enhancing airspace awareness and security.
This visit marks his first overseas trip in 2024 and underscores the United States’ commitment to its bilateral security partnership with Guyana.
The visit will last from January 31 – February 2.
The 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern), as the Air Force component of the U.S. Southern Command, plays a pivotal role in conducting security cooperation and providing air, space, and cyberspace capabilities across Latin America and the Caribbean.
The unit is instrumental in supporting U.S. Southern Command’s efforts to deter aggression, defeat threats, and rapidly respond to crises, alongside building the regional capacity of allies and partner nations to ensure a secure, free, and prosperous Western Hemisphere.
According to a release from the U.S. embassy, Major General Pettus’ visit to Guyana is a clear indication of the strong and ongoing commitment of the United States to the U.S.-Guyana bilateral security partnership, which is crucial for regional stability.
“During his stay, Maj. Gen. Pettus is scheduled to meet with senior leaders in the Government of Guyana, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and U.S. Embassy to discuss the U.S. defence partnership with Guyana. During his visit with GDF leadership, Maj. Gen. Pettus plans to discuss air domain awareness and collaborate on advancing Guyana’s airspace awareness capacity to protect its national security and sovereignty.
“Maj. Gen. Pettus’ visit to Guyana is his first trip overseas in 2024 and signifies the importance of the bilateral security partnership as the GDF continues to expand its aviation capabilities,” the release said.
It added that the US continues to work closely with its allies around the world to strengthen alliances and partnerships by improving interoperability, deepening information-sharing and planning, and conducting complex joint and combined exercises.
