Ecuador and U.S. Strengthen Defense Ties
During the South American Defense Conference (SOUTHDEC 24) in Santiago, Chile, Ecuador officially joined the U.S. Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) Human Rights Initiative.
U.S. Southern Command General Laura Richardson said Friday she expects a “significant” reduction in crime in Ecuador following the signing of a security agreement between the two countries. The agreement was reached during the South American Security Summit in Santiago, Chile.
This partnership aims to enhance respect for human rights within military forces across Latin America and the Caribbean. The conference, attended by defense leaders from across the region, focused on leveraging new technologies like artificial intelligence to address regional threats and foster cooperation.
According to Admiral Jaime Patricio Vela, who signed the agreement for Ecuador, the pact will provide additional military support in the fight against international drug cartels. “In particular, this will strengthen our surveillance of overseas drug transport routes which, in turn, will reduce crime in our port cities.”
The inclusion of Ecuador in the Human Rights Initiative marks a significant step in deepening defense and security ties between the U.S. and Ecuador, emphasizing collaboration on issues such as climate change, migration, and democratic stability.
