Other Views

Crucial time for our hemisphere

 

www.rubio.senate.gov

Counter-narcotic successes in Colombia have shifted the threat of transnational criminal organizations to Mexico and Central America, and there is growing concern that security efforts in these countries will shift the threat into the Caribbean and increase reliance on sea routes for smuggling while adding pressure to the governments of Jamaica and the Dominican Republic among others. In response, Southcom should look at increased military-to-military cooperation through training and equipment programs in Honduras to expand their coastal patrol capability, and other countries in the region willing to accept this type of U.S. support.

Otherwise, we should enable partners like the Colombians to export security training and assistance. Providing simple items — like night vision goggles — can make a big difference.

Finally, there are larger geo-strategic concerns within Latin America. The Chinese government continues to out-maneuver the U.S. on trade deals and is aggressively buying resources for export across the Pacific, all while cultivating ties with Latin American governments. Due to Latin America’s proximity to the U.S., our enemies have not let up on establishing a foothold in the region.

Working with Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez and his Bolivarian alliance of Rafael Correa in Ecuador, Evo Morales in Bolivia, Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua and the Castros in Cuba, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has worked aggressively to cultivate friendships, open “cultural offices,” and place his operatives in nations that welcome them. Fortunately, Iran has a spotty track record of delivering on its promises. But we know their intentions are not benign.

I welcome Gen. Kelly and his family to South Florida, and to this challenging assignment. I look forward to working with him and the men and women from all the services and their families who serve our nation at U.S. Southern Command at this important time.

Read more Other Views stories from the Miami Herald

  • MIAMI

    Miami’s yummy pizza memories

    Every neighborhood has a favorite pizza joint. They are usually homey, “mom and pop” places like the one your dad took you to after a ball game or the one your family would visit on a Sunday eve to spare Mom of kitchen duty.

  •  

DE LA CRUZ

    FOSTER PARENTING

    Foster parenting: Our eureka moment

    “You have to take risks. We will only understand the miracle of life fully when we allow the unexpected to happen.”

  •  

Picture of a Boy Scout.

    BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

    Boy Scouts’ ‘life lesson’ on hypocrisy

    Phone (305) 364-0020 and you'll hear this recording: "You have reached the South Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America, and Learning for Life."

Miami Herald

Join the
Discussion

The Miami Herald is pleased to provide this opportunity to share information, experiences and observations about what's in the news. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere on the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate on the issues of the day, and ask that you refrain from profanity, hate speech, personal comments and remarks that are off point. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.

The Miami Herald uses Facebook's commenting system. You need to log in with a Facebook account in order to comment. If you have questions about commenting with your Facebook account, click here.

Have a news tip? You can send it anonymously. Click here to send us your tip - or - consider joining the Public Insight Network and become a source for The Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald.

Hide Comments

This affects comments on all stories.

Cancel OK

  • Videos

  • Quick Job Search

Enter Keyword(s) Enter City Select a State Select a Category