On January 22, 2025, the Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) received Major General Jaime González Ávalos, Senior Official of the Secretariat of National Defense of Mexico and former Vice President of the Council of Delegates of the IADB, at the facilities of the Casa del Soldado. The event took place under a framework of institutional protocol, highlighting the importance of strengthening ties of cooperation and dialogue among the Armed Forces of the Americas.
Upon his arrival, General González Ávalos was received by the President of the Council of Delegates, the Director General of the IADB Secretariat, members of the Mexican Delegation and representatives of the IADB from the countries of Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic and Chile. During the reception, the honor of having the presence of someone who, in his professional career, served as Vice President of the Council of Delegates of the IADB, leaving a significant mark on the organization, was highlighted.
General González Ávalos was given a tour of the facilities, during which he was explained the history of the Casa del Soldado, an emblematic building that symbolizes the unity, dedication and service of the Armed Forces of the hemisphere. Its role as a venue for high-level meetings and its legacy in promoting multilateral dialogue were highlighted.
In a briefing given by the Director General of the IADB Secretariat, a comprehensive overview of the work of the IADB was presented. Its commitment to regional cooperation in the management of hemispheric challenges was highlighted, including security, natural disasters and organized crime, in line with the mandates of the OAS and the Democratic Charter. Special mention was also made of the contribution of General González Ávalos during his period as Vice President of the Council, in strengthening the organization.
In a solemn moment, General González Ávalos signed the Casa del Soldado's distinguished visitors' book, leaving a message that reflected his recognition of the work of the IADB and his commitment to the shared values of cooperation and solidarity.
The main event took place in the Flag Room, a space reserved for official events of international relevance. During this ceremony, honors were paid and the spirit of collaboration that unites the Armed Forces of the continent was reaffirmed.
The President of the Council of Delegates addressed a few remarks, highlighting the career and contributions of General González Ávalos to the defense and security of the region, as well as his invaluable work as Vice President of the Council of Delegates of the IADB. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of working together to face common challenges and promote regional stability.
As a symbol of appreciation and gratitude, the General was presented with an institutional gift that represents the values and commitment of the IADB to integration and the strengthening of hemispheric security.
To commemorate the occasion, an official photograph was taken in the Flag Room, accompanied by the directors of the JID and the officials present, in a gesture that symbolized unity and mutual respect.
Afterwards, a toast was offered in honor of General González Ávalos, during which the attendees had the opportunity to exchange ideas in an atmosphere of camaraderie and respect. This moment allowed for strengthening institutional ties and highlighting the value of multilateral cooperation.
At the end of the event, General González Ávalos was bid farewell. The hosts expressed their gratitude for his visit and reiterated the commitment of the IADB to collaboration and strengthening ties between the Armed Forces of the hemisphere.
