United States Government provide maritime and tactical equipment to Belize Coast Guard

Published by BBN Staff at March 25, 2021

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Posted: Thursday, March 25, 2021. 4:52 pm CST.

By Zoila Palma: Today, the United States Embassy in Belize donated vital maritime and tactical equipment to the Belize Coast Guard.

Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Keith Gilges handed over six outboard engines, along with navigational equipment, maintenance tools, and fifteen sets of night vision goggles to Minister of National Defence and Border Security, Florencio Marin Jr., Minister of State for the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, Oscar Mira, and Belize Coast Guard Acting Commandant, Commander Gregory Soberanis.

The Embassy noted that the equipment will assist in the expansion of the Coast Guard Fleet and will improve nighttime operational capabilities.

The equipment is valued at $400,000 USD and was provided by the Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) funding.

“This donation today of engines and equipment will significantly increase Coast Guard’s ability and capacity to function at sea and execute its mandate of maritime safety and security. This equipment will enable the Coast Guard to expand its vessel fleet and maneuver with added confidence while conducting night operations,” Minister Marin said.

Chargé Gilges highlighted, “This successful maritime program is an excellent example of how well our two governments can work together to focus on improving strategic communications, increase operational efficacy, and work across agencies to tackle big challenges – like combatting narco-trafficking. This project will directly increase the Government of Belize’s ability to combat, deter, and disrupt narcotics trafficking and other illegal activities in Belizean waters.”

Since 2008, the United States has contributed over $43.7 million USD to advance citizen security, economic prosperity, and good governance in Belize through our Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) programs.

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