Asunción, Agencia IP.- Cibar Benítez, Head of the National Defense Council (Codena), emphasized that the presence of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is crucial for the Government of Paraguay. For this reason, Codena has decided to consolidate and restructure cooperation to enhance its operational effectiveness.
The National Defense Council met last Monday, with President Santiago Peña participating. Following the session, Rear Admiral Benítez outlined the topics discussed, which covered various aspects of defense and security, focusing on the agreement between Paraguay and the DEA.
Benítez highlighted that the fight against transnational organized crime is a top government priority. He stressed that international cooperation is essential and welcomed. «We cannot exclude any form of cooperation regarding defense and state security,» he stated.
He explained that the Paraguayan Government has decided to initiate a new phase that will simultaneously restructure the defense and security system while strengthening the presence of the U.S. DEA.
In this regard, Benítez reiterated that the DEA’s presence is fundamental. He confirmed that cooperation would not be interrupted but instead reorganized for greater efficiency. «We are working on a new agreement that will enhance the DEA’s presence while ensuring the sovereignty of the Paraguayan state, which is non-negotiable,» he affirmed.
He stressed that there will be no cessation of cooperation. On the contrary, it will be reinforced. «We will strengthen the DEA’s presence, which is vital while organizing ourselves as a sovereign nation in coordination with them,» he added.
Senad Minister to join Codena
Benítez also mentioned that the National Anti-Drug Secretariat (Senad) will continue close collaboration with the DEA and other related efforts to combat transnational organized crime and drug trafficking.
Additionally, he announced that Senad would become part of Codena, reaffirming the government’s commitment to uniting efforts in the fight against these challenges.