U.S. Marines and their Colombian counterparts convened for a strategic planning session from January 29 to February 1, 2024, aimed at bolstering military cooperation and enhancing regional security in the Western Hemisphere.
The staff planner working group was a venue for U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South, and the Colombian Marine Corps to strengthen ties, enhance interoperability, and address key operational challenges through discussions and the planning of future bilateral exercises.
Key outcomes included the development of Lines of Efforts (LOE), strategic initiatives to boost operational capabilities as part of a wider effort by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) to enhance security and stability in the region.
Additionally, the creation of a Security Cooperation Engagement Plan (SCEP) outlined future military collaborations to enhance the security capabilities of both nations.
The working group also highlighted the importance of incorporating gender perspectives in military operations, aligning with SOUTHCOM’s Women, Peace, and Security initiative and international commitments like the U.N. Security Council Resolution 1325.
Discussions included the International Military Education and Training (IMET) program, focusing on the advantages of training allied and partner forces in U.S. defense courses to boost joint operations and leadership skills.
A visit to the Colombian Amphibious Maintenance Battalion on January 31 provided insights into the maintenance of Colombia’s military equipment, underscoring the importance of such exchanges in strengthening military ties between the United States and Colombia.
Colombia is an important U.S. ally, and both nations contribute to the freedom and prosperity of the Western Hemisphere. The United States and Colombia have maintained strong diplomatic relations since 1822, following Colombia’s independence.
The staff planner working group marks a significant step in the future partnerships between the United States and Colombia, focusing on combined efforts to enhance regional security and tackle shared challenges to ensure a free, secure, and prosperous Western Hemisphere.