NASSAU, Bahamas – Smartly clad marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force presented a colourful Parade of Flags of participating countries for the official opening of the Second Caribbean-United States Security Cooperation Dialogue.
Under the theme “Fostering Greater Regional Coordination and Ensuring Long-Term Sustainment”, leaders from around the region and the United States of America converged for the meeting.
The conference formally opened amidst much pomp and pageantry at Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island, Thursday, November 10.
The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band led the national anthems for The Bahamas and the United States of America and also provided entertainment for the event.
Participants included Prime Minister Hubert Hon Ingraham, and Minister of National Security . O.A.T. Tommy Turnquest.
Among those in attendance were Cabinet Ministers, members of parliament, senators, permanent secretaries and a cross-section of senior government officials. Permanent Secretary Carl Smith served as moderator for the opening.
Dr Errol Cort, Minister of National Security for Antigua and Barbuda and Janet Napolitano, United States Secretary of Homeland Security, also gave remarks.
Local law enforcement representatives included the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and Her Majesty’s Prisons. Recruits of these organizations were also present.
The two-day event is being hosted by the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and sponsored by the United States Government.
The meeting also involves ministers of National Security from the Caribbean community, Caribbean Community Heads of Government and representatives of the Dominican Republic.
By: Kathryn Campbell
Bahamas Information Services
