By Loop Haiti, March 31, 2024
The Belize Defence Force (BDF) has announced that a Haiti contingent comprising 31 members of the Belize Defence Force, 20 Coast Guard, and their commanding officer Major Ermil Coh, departed from the Philip Goldson International Airport on a flight to Jamaica.
It states this landmark event, made possible by the Canadian Armed Forces, marks the commencement of a month-long training program aimed at enhancing operational readiness and fostering regional cooperation.
“The deployment of the Belize Defence Force and Coast Guard to Jamaica underscores the commitment of nations to collaborate in bolstering security and addressing common challenges. The support extended by the Canadian Armed Forces reflects the shared values of solidarity and mutual assistance among Caribbean nations.”
The BDF explains that the contingent will undergo intensive training at the Jamaica Defence Force Moneague Training Camp, located 46 miles northwest of the capital, Kingston.
This comprehensive program is designed to equip participants with advanced skills and knowledge necessary for future deployments, particularly in support of efforts in Haiti, facilitated by the Canadian Armed Forces.
Major Ermil Coh, the commanding officer, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this transformative training initiative. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing shared security concerns and reaffirmed the unwavering dedication of the Belize Defence Force and Coast Guard to upholding peace and stability in the region.
“As the contingent embarks on this mission, they carry with them the pride and determination of their nation, symbolizing Belize's steadfast commitment to regional security and cooperation. This collaborative effort epitomizes the spirit of partnership and mutual support that characterises relations among Caribbean nations,” says the BDF.
Meanwhile, a statement from Canada's Department of National Defence said yesterday approximately 70 Canadian Armed Forces members were deployed to Jamaica.
At the request of the Jamaican government, they will provide training to military personnel from Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations who are set to deploy to Haiti as part of the United Nations-authorised, Kenyan-led, Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission.
On the Canadian mission in Jamaica, known as Operation HELIOS, CAF members will provide training on core peacekeeping skills and combat first aid – and carry out validation and integration exercises for CARICOM troops.
This Canadian training will prepare the CARICOM troops to deploy on the Kenyan-led MSS mission and to bolster the Haitian National Police (HNP) in their efforts to restore security for the people of Haiti.
Canadian Armed Forces expects to train approximately 330 CARICOM troops from Jamaica, Belize and the Bahamas.
Posted Jan. 12, 2024