Good Afternoon,
It is a pleasure to have returned to Mauritania for a second time as the commander of the United States Africa Command. I thank President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz and the Mauritanian Ministry of Defense for a memorable and productive visit.
Since my last visit, Mauritania and the United States have continued their long-standing partnership to improve the capacity of Mauritania’s military. Today, we discussed how our partnership should evolve to take into account the significant advances achieved in recent years in the Mauritanian military’s capabilities.
I congratulate the people of Mauritania on the successful completion of peaceful and orderly presidential elections this past June. The United States looks forward to continuing to work with President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz and his government to promote regional security.
The cherished objectives of the Mauritanian people for a prosperous and united country can only be accomplished with peace and security.
This year the United States Africa Command will continue coordination of training efforts with Mauritanian forces participating in the ongoing United Nations Peacekeeping Operation in the Central African Republic.
In a troubled world, Mauritania is sharing its security and stability through the service of its brave soldiers on behalf of fellow Africans in dire need. We have great respect for Mauritania’s contributions to African security.
Mauritania’s hosting of the fifth annual African Air Chief Symposium is another example of your country’s leadership on this continent. In 2015 and beyond, the partnership between our two countries will continue to flourish as we strive for peace, security and prosperity for both our peoples.
Thank you.
