Remarks by Ambassador Leslie A. Bassett during Border and Financial Crime Investigation Training (June 9, 2016)

Good Morning. It is a pleasure for me to be here with you all today. I extend a warm welcome to Minister Boidanich, to the invited authorities and to all those present here. I would like to acknowledge and thank the leadership of the Office of the Prosecutor, the National Police, Migrations, Customs, SENAD and SEPRELAD for accompanying us this morning and the other entities that are present today that supported and participated in this important event. I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Investigations to coordinate this course and bring them here. But most of all, I want to acknowledge and acknowledge your commitment to pursue transnational criminal organizations involved in money laundering, cash smuggling, narcotics smuggling and other crimes that threaten both the United States of America and Paraguay.

In order to combat transnational crime, security forces in modern times must also operate across international borders. Together, we must collaborate, share information, and pursue these common threats. By participating in this course, you have demonstrated your desire and continued commitment to working together with the United States of America and its sister agencies to eliminate these threats.

With the evolution of the global market and the digital age, security forces have had to adapt and modify their techniques to identify the new and sophisticated criminal methods used to launder money. This week you have been able to exchange information and learn about best practices to assist us all in dismantling these criminal networks.

Once this training is complete, remember that unity is strength. , We are united in our aspirations to achieve a better life for our citizens. I congratulate you on your commitment to protect the Paraguayan economy and society in working for a secure and solid future.

Thank you again for your commitment and for taking part in this course.