contributed

Minister of National Security, Peter Bunting (left), and Chile's ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Eduardo Bonilla, symbolically exchange documents containing the defence technical agreement, signed on Tuesday between both countries, at the Ministry of National Security, Oxford Road, St Andrew.

The government and Republic of Chile have entered into a defence technical agreement with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) to benefit from advanced training in humanitarian relief and peacekeeping efforts.

The agreement was inked on Tuesday, at the Ministry of National Security, Oxford Road, St Andrew, by Minister Peter Bunting and Chile's ambassador to Jamaica, Eduardo Bonilla.

Under the deal, the JDF, which now operates as a Centre of Excellence for aviation training for regional territories, will see expansion of the offerings and improved capacity in security and defence.

The minister said the agreement demonstrates the strength of Jamaica's 50-year relation with the South American country.

"The Chilean armed forces, for more than 100 years, have developed a track record of cooperation and training throughout the Latin American and Caribbean region, that will prove beneficial to both countries," he added.

"The Government firmly believes that this agreement will assist the JDF in increasing its operational effectiveness, and its ability to secure Jamaica's borders, and will contribute to the JDF's transformation into a more responsive force, whose members are trained to the highest international standards," the minister said.

He added that by exchanging experiences and knowledge, the mutual pact will further position Jamaica to participate in international, regional and hemispheric security.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Bonilla said the agreement will help his country in the teaching of English, and sport development, as well as enhanced security for both nations.

"We are going to exchange the military experience between both countries and better prepare each other in peacekeeping," the ambassador said.