“In this regard, it is remembered that Latin America and the Caribbean have been proclaimed a zone of peace, a commitment adopted by all member states (…)” therefore, the threat or use of force is prohibited, and the peaceful settlement of disputes, the promotion of dialogue and multilateralism, unrestricted respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, and the inalienable right of peoples to self-determination are promulgated.

“We also emphasize,” the CELAC countries emphasize, “that the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean (Treaty of Tlatelolco) constitutes a historic milestone that made our region the first densely populated area in the world free of this type of weapon (…).” The document adds that “this treaty reflects the commitment of our peoples to peace, collective security, and the definitive prohibition of nuclear weapons as a means of coercion or threat.”

The CELAC countries recognize that transnational organized crime and drug trafficking constitute a significant threat to achieving peaceful and inclusive societies, and therefore reaffirm their commitment to combating them as a priority.

In this regard, they consider it necessary to increase regional and international cooperation and coordination within the framework of respect for international law and in compliance with current legal frameworks and international conventions.

“The CELAC countries that have signed this declaration call for the promotion of a secure environment and reiterate their firm commitment to defending peace, stability, democracy, and development throughout the region,” the statement concludes.

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