The Ministro de Gobierno y Justicia, Daniel Delgado Diamante, issued a press release yesterday detailing the highlights of his recent tour of the United States, which included a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.
Delgado said the visit helped to demonstrate Panama’s national security vision to U.S. authorities, especially with regard to combating drug trafficking and organized crime. Gates responded to Delgado’s plans with enthusiasm, and pledged to look for ways to support Panama’s efforts.
“We didn’t go there to ask for anything or to present figures in terms of funding,” explained Delgado. “But we did make known our plans to fight drug trafficking, which is the main threat facing security in the region.”
Delgado emphasized the importance of respecting the constitutional sovereignty of other countries in the region when working to fight the illegal drug trade.
In regards to the Merida Plan, a U.S.-funded program aimed at reducing drug violence throughout Latin America, the ministro confirmed that Panama will receive $10.8 million over two years. Those funds will be invested in operations and legal investigation training, a system of exchanging criminal information, security and inspection teams for ports of entry, crime prevention and prison management.
