US SouthCom Commander Visits Belize

Admiral Craig Faller, Commander of the United States Southern Command, met with Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Minister of National Security John Saldivar earlier today at the Laing Building.  Admiral Faller congratulated PM Barrow for the successful outcome of the I.C.J. referendum and extended his commitment to continue to strengthen the cooperative relationship between Belize’s armed force and U.S. SouthCom.  Admiral Faller’s brief visit was his first since assuming command of SouthCom.

Craig Faller

Admiral Craig Faller, Commander, US SouthCom

“I’ve always wanted to come to Belize.  Belize is the Jewel and since a young boy I wanted to come here.  I’ve heard stories of the warm people, friendly people and great climate.  Since coming into this job I’ve really learned of the importance of Belize to the security of our neighborhood, our hemisphere and the region.  The professional defense forces, the coast guard is very capable and does a great job and so it was important for me, very early in my tour, I’ve only been in my job for five months to come here to build on the already outstanding relationships that we have and really build on that and to build trust to get to know the leaders.  All those objectives have been achieved, as I’ve gotten to go out and see the country with my wife who is here with me, meet the warm people and to build those friendships.”

Reporter

“How was your visit?”

Admiral Craig Faller

“The visit was fantastic.  All our expectations and objectives were met.  We had the opportunity to go to the coast guard, meet with a team there and watch a demonstration.  We had the opportunity to meet with the Belize Defense Force to discuss all the opportunities and the challenges and there are many challenges across the region that we can work on together.”