The Special Conference of the Conference of American Armies focusing on the security issues of the 21st century begins in Miami | Article

Representatives from the 17 member armies of the Conference of American Armies (CAA) and three special observer armies gathered in Miami for the CAA Specialized Conference to be held November 4-7.

At the welcome reception on November 3, Maj. Gen. Philip Ryan, commander of U.S. Army South and chairman of the special conference, emphasized the importance of friendship and cooperation in achieving the CAA’s mission.

He said mutual investment in these partnerships is vital for regional security and fosters an atmosphere of trust and common purpose among CAA members.

“Your presence here today is a testament to the strength of our partnerships, and we are truly honored to have you join us here in the United States,” Ryan said. “Over the next few days, this special conference will provide us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our relationships, share our ideas and work together to overcome common challenges.”

This special conference, hosted by U.S. Army South on behalf of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Randy George, will discuss practical initiatives that promote international cooperation and strengthen regional security.

“As we embark on this journey together, I encourage each of you to actively share your unique insights and experiences,” Ryan said. “CAA’s strength is in its partnerships, and it is through each of your perspectives that we find innovative solutions to the challenges we all share.”

Founded in 1960, the CAA is an international military organization that aims to establish and strengthen relations between militaries in the Western Hemisphere. Its goals include strengthening integration and cooperation among American militaries, protecting against threats to peace, and advancing democracy and freedom.

The organization has member armies from 24 countries, including Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay. Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, Uruguay and Venezuela. Observer armies included Belize and Suriname, while Spain, Panama and Portugal were considered special observer armies.

The CAA is integrated and directed by each country’s military commander, with full authority from the relevant governments.

“Since its founding, the CAA has been a vital forum for advancing cooperation and understanding among the militaries in our hemisphere,” said William Castillo, U.S. Army CAA liaison officer. “By fostering relationships based on trust and common goals, we can better address threats to peace, uphold democratic principles, and protect the freedoms we all cherish. The strength of our organization lies in its ability to unite nations, member by member, under common goals. Our military is committed to supporting the security and stability of our region “He brings valuable insights and experience.”

Every two years, conference leadership rotates among member countries, allowing for different perspectives and new approaches.

The current leadership, known as Cycle XXXVI, is in Mexican hands and is led by Major General Josè Mario Vega Hernández, secretary general of the CAA.

The theme of this cycle is “21. These are the new roles adopted by American armies within the framework of each country’s international legislation in response to the challenges of the 21st century.

This theme, determined by army commanders, reflects the CAA’s commitment to meeting modern security demands while respecting each country’s legal framework.

Expressing his determination to advance the mission of the CAA, Vega said, “We come together with the fundamental issue of strengthening our relations by focusing on the international and special legislation of the member countries in order to fulfill the commitments of bilateral and multilateral mechanisms.”

Today’s inauguration ceremony highlights the CAA’s focus on strengthening integration, maintaining peace, and adapting to emerging security threats through combined legislative efforts.

Recognizing the importance of these efforts, Ryan said, “This conference serves as an opportunity for us to ensure that our nations live up to their commitments and set high standards for future cooperation.” “We must recognize the importance of adapting our legal frameworks to respond to new threats and evolving security needs, while maintaining the principles of transparency, accountability and respect for international law.”

CAA serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas, information and experience among member militaries.

“This forum represents a step towards achieving better cooperation and interoperability between our militaries when we face current and potential challenges, mainly arising from natural disasters, epidemics, transnational crimes, social unrest, among other things,” Vega said. “It is clear that each country’s international commitments allow cooperation and also provide a range of opportunities to strengthen joint capabilities that are key to ensuring interoperability.”

Various practical initiatives will be proposed during the conference, and a team of experts will provide background information and assist participants in their work.

“I look forward to the productive and meaningful discussions ahead,” Ryan said. “Let’s work together to ensure that the processes we establish today will support the security and stability of our nations for years to come.”