Defence Minister Tours Belize Southern Border Operations

Minister of National Defence and Border Security, Florencio Marin Jr., conducted an official visit to the Southern Tactical Area of Responsibility to observe Belize’s southern border operations.  Minister Marin was accompanied by Commander of the Belize Defence Force, Brigadier General Anthony Velasquez, as well as Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Gregory Soberanis, along with other senior members of the security leadership.

According to the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, the visit allowed the minister to engage directly with personnel stationed in the region and to review ongoing operations aimed at safeguarding Belize’s territorial integrity.  Minister Marin spoke with Love News on the takeaways from the visit and its purpose.  

Florencio Marin Jr, Minister of National Defence and Boarder Security: “Thankfully we have professionals in both our armed forces, in the Belize Defence Force and the Coast Guard. So the gentlemen who used to work, commanders before had a peaceful transition to the now General Velasquez and Admiral Soberanis who are professional and well trained and have enough operational experience to handle the mantle. We know it’s only one month in but I’m quite happy at their performance so far and I look forward to continue working with them.”

The Ministry says the visit also served as an opportunity for senior leadership to review operational needs and to ensure that security personnel have the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively.