21St Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – Regional Security and North Border

Honorable Manuel Eduardo Conde Orellana, President of the Republic of Guatemala, extended a warm welcome to the attendees of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala. He underscored the paramount significance of addressing transnational crime and regional security.

Conde Orellana elucidated that Guatemala and Central America occupy a pivotal geopolitical position situated between South and North America, effectively connecting the region with markets such as Mexico, the United States, and Canada. While this strategic location presents economic opportunities, it simultaneously exposes the region to substantial security challenges, including narcotrafficking, illegal migration, human trafficking, arms smuggling, and organized crime.

He elucidated the intricate nature of drug trafficking, which operates through maritime, air, and land routes. Clandestine airstrips, porous borders, and maritime corridors serve as conduits for the movement of narcotics primarily towards the United States.

Conde Orellana acknowledged that Guatemala has had to confront these threats largely through its own resources, despite its role as a crucial barrier against regional criminal networks. He further highlighted the challenges posed by migrant smuggling networks, irregular migration caravans, and the trafficking of minors and weapons.

Concluding his remarks, Conde Orellana reaffirmed Guatemala’s unwavering commitment to bolstering laws, fostering regional cooperation, and intensifying enforcement efforts to combat organized crime and safeguard the stability and well-being of the region.