CARTAGENA, Colombia (Aug. 23, 2023) -- General Commander of the Colombian Military Forces, Gen. Helder Giraldo, addresses attendees during the opening ceremony of the South American Defense Conference 2023 (SOUTHDEC 23). U.S. Army Gen. Laura Richardson, the commander of SOUTHCOM, joined defense leaders from 10 nations to discuss security challenges and regional cooperation during SOUTHDEC 23, hosted by Colombia Aug. 23-24, 2023. (Photo Erica Bechard, U.S. Southern Command Public Affairs)