The Jamaica Defence Force will this year host the Caribbean Nations Security Conference (CANSEC) from the 26 to 29 January in Kingston, Jamaica.  The annual conference, which is in its 14th year, is a forum for defence and security chiefs from across the region to hold collective discussions on mutual and common security concerns while sharing experiences and ideas.

The theme for CANSEC XIV is “Strengthening Regional Capacity and Fostering Cooperation to Counter Regional Threats” and will involve participation by senior defence and security officials and representatives from countries outside of the region, as well as from regional and hemispheric security institutions.

According to Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Antony Anderson, “CANSEC is an important event that allows the various militaries and security bodies in the region to collaborate and enhance operational synergies through strengthened ties and increased understanding.

It provides an essential forum for the Caribbean nations, regional security institutions and international partners to mutually support each other in an effort to maintain security in the region”.

General Anderson further explained that this year’s forum will include essential discussions on emerging regional threats, regional strategy synchronisation and regional efforts to counter illicit trafficking.  It will also include discussions on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and integrated capacity building in the region.

Participants at CANSEC typically include countries from the Caribbean and North and South America, as well as the United Kingdom. This year Cuba has been invited by Jamaica to participate which will have the effect of bringing Cuba more sharply into the security picture and collaborative efforts in the region.

The conference is being planned and executed jointly by the Jamaica Defence Force and the United States Southern Command (US SOUTHCOM) and will be held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.