On August 22, 2016, the Perry Center hosted a delegation of four Argentine defense professionals as part of US Southern Command’s support to the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security. Accompanying Rear Admiral María Inés Uriarte of the Argentine Navy was a delegation that included Colonel Elizabeth María Sotelo of the Argentine Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Luz Ivone Perdomo of the Argentine Army, and Ms. Carolina Urtea, a Ministry of Defense civilian responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of inclusive gender policies for the armed forces. Notably, Rear Admiral Uriarte holds the distinction of being the first female flag officer in the Argentine Navy. Director Mark Wilkins joined Perry Center faculty and these distinguished guests to discuss opportunities for US-Argentine cooperation to promote the participation of women across the spectrum of defense professions, including in combat roles.

“We are so honored to have received this group of exceptional women. All of us agreed that the full participation of women is essential to enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of defense institutions,” stated Dr. Alejandra Bolaños, Associate Professor at the Perry Center. All Argentine armed services were represented, and each guest contributed unique perspectives on the importance of incorporating the vision, talent, and leadership of women into defense decision-making processes.

Other activities during the delegation’s week in Washington include meetings at National Defense University’s College of International Security Affairs (CISA), the National Women’s Law Center, and the US Institute of Peace (USIP).