Costa Rica and Colombia are studying the possibility of establishing a joint patrol agreement in the Caribbean Sea with the aim of strengthening narcotics control efforts and organized crime, and further expand its program of cooperation in security and intelligence.
Defense Minister of Colombia, Juan Carlos Pinzon, and his colleague, the Minister of Justice, Ruth Correa, met with Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla and Security Minister Mario Zamora.
Finch said in a press conference that these visits are required to review the actions of cooperation and find ways to strengthen them.
One such measure would be the signing of a joint patrol from the Colombian base in the archipelago of San Andres, Finch stated.
In addition, Colombia hopes to continue training Costa Rican police officers. From 2005 until last year, a total of 383 officers were trained in Colombia.
Colombian Minister added that in the coming months the country will also send some ships to Costa Rica to provide training to the local coastguard.
Both Finch and Zamora highlighted the excellent relations their countries have and the commitment to strengthen the exchange of information to improve the fight against organized crime.
The Costa Rica News (TCRN)
San Jose Costa Rica
