For the past few days we've been reporting on tensions developing between the Friends for Conservation and Development, the Forestry Department and the logging company named Bulridge.
And sources have also suggested that there are those in the Defence Ministry who also have issued with FCD over operations in the Chiquibul.
But, today, the CEO of the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security dismissed that suggestions, stating that he's friends with Friends:
Francis Usher, CEO Ministry of National Defence and Border Security
"So the FCD has had a great partnership with the BDF, for atleast for my entire career in the BDF. When I was a young platoon commander 2011,2012 all the way up to 2015. The FCD primarily focuses on the Chiquibul forest reserve and the battalion in charge of the Chiquibul is stationed at Camp Belizario in Cayo. So during my various tours at camp Belizario, I worked hand in hand with the FCD, Mr.Manzanero Mr.Derrick Chan, we used to ride a tractor they had called the jumping viper. The tractor unfortunately is no longer in operation but um the BDF works well with the FCD. the BDF understands that our role is to protect the, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Belize and so we will partner with anyone who is willing to aid us in assisting that, in the goal of getting that done."
