Middle District of Florida Hosts International Security Delegation
U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Ruddy delivered dynamic presentations to visiting representatives from 80 countries during a U.S. Department of State (DOS) workshop – Towards a More Safe and Secure World (TMSSW). USAO personnel joined other partnering agencies in St. Petersburg, Florida to discuss transnational drug trafficking organizations, human trafficking issues, and task force operations.
“Coordination and cooperation with partners beyond our borders is essential in combating international threats,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “The International Visitor Leadership Program provides a unique opportunity for individuals and entities from around the world to share their experiences and learn from each other.”
The TMSSW was hosted by the Florida Regional Community Policing Institute at St. Petersburg College as part of the DOS International Visitor Leadership Program, a professional exchange program. Through short-term visits to the United States, current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields of experience engage in interdisciplinary discussions with their American counterparts. Professional meetings and workshops reflect the participants’ professional interests and support the foreign policy goals of the United States.