The arrival of US Ambassador Marc Stanley in Buenos Aires on Wednesday has resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on security cooperation.
Speaking to Sergio Massa, the Argentine Economy Minister, Stanley claimed, “By sharing resources, knowledge, and, most importantly, common goals, we are taking decisive steps to make our nation’s safer places in which we can thrive.”
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), known as a ‘more formal alternative to a gentleman’s agreement’ outlines the convergence of will between two or more parties. Meeting at the Kirchner Cultural Center, the two discussed the need to address crimes such as drug trafficking, money laundering and human trafficking which have a transnational nature. Focusing on tracing the movement of money used in these crimes, and seeking to markedly increase the level of security information shared by the nations by 2024, Massa claimed, “[the amount of security information shared] will reach its maximum expression in terms of automaticity in the tracing of criminal money” continuing, “In no corner of Argentina will criminals feel at peace.”
Argentine Security Minister, Aníbal Fernández was also present, stating, “Cooperation in security matters with the United States is also beneficial for the country at an operational level, due to the close links we have with different US agencies.” The signing “allows the four federal services to benefit from a great deal of experience and cooperation in their tasks of prevention and judicial support.”
Additionally, the Buenos Aires Herald posited, “a pending issue in the Argentine Congress is the passing of the tax amnesty law, which will allow Argentina to investigate capital flight and money laundering.” Massa, who is also a Candidate for the upcoming Argentine election stated, “Without the professionalism of our security forces, without mature relations and exchange of information between each of the forces, it is very difficult for international agencies to agree to advance in cooperation agreements
The Mou allows for the creation of a joint framework to achieve the goals set out by the two nations, particularly maritime and civilian security, transnational crime and the development of security institutions. With the US Embassy in Argentina stating on its website, “The memorandum articulates a joint framework to achieve shared objectives, which include: an enhanced focus on the fight against transnational organized crime, increased cooperation in maritime security, and strengthening citizen security, rule of law, and the quality of security institutions. The agreement lays out a roadmap to plan activities of mutual interest and establishes methodologies to evaluate achievements.”
Furthermore ‘The agreement optimizes the exchange of strategic, tactical, and operational information, in accordance with each country’s respective legal system and international commitments. In addition, it promotes training activities, reciprocal assistance in research programs, and professional exchanges.’
Closing the ceremony Stanley said, “I hope this agreement will serve as a cornerstone for a long-lasting collaboration in combatting security threats for the next 200 years.”