Category: Africa

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Readout of USEUCOM Commander’s meeting with Ukrainian President

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

Readout of USEUCOM Commander’s meeting with Ukrainian President

Gen. Christopher Cavoli commander of U.S. European Command, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Germany, Dec. 14, 2023, to discuss ongoing U.S. and international military support to aid the Ukrainian people in defense of their nation against Russian aggression. (Photo by Susanne Goebel)

Readout of USEUCOM Commander’s meeting with Ukrainian President

Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command, meets with Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Germany, Dec. 14, 2023, to discuss ongoing U.S. and international military support to aid the Ukrainian people in defense of their nation against Russian aggression. (Photo by Susanne Goebel)

Readout of USEUCOM Commander’s meeting with Ukrainian President

Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Germany, Dec. 14, 2023, to discuss ongoing U.S. and international military support to aid the Ukrainian people in defense of their nation against Russian aggression. (Photo by Susanne Goebel)

Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Germany, Dec. 14, 2023.

Gen. Cavoli and President Zelenskyy discussed continued U.S. support to meet Ukraine’s most urgent requirements, including the provision of the 53rd Presidential Drawdown package announced this week by President Biden.

The two also discussed ongoing U.S. and international efforts to train the Ukrainian Armed Forces. President Zelenskyy also met with multinational representatives from some of the 50 nations who continue to provide assistance to Ukraine. Through the strong and strategic relationships established in support of Ukraine, the U.S. and international community continue to support Ukraine’s fight to preserve its sovereignty and ability to protect Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.

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EUCOM increases cyberspace interoperability in annual NATO-hosted cyber defense exercise

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

EUCOM increases cyberspace interoperability in annual NATO-hosted cyber defense exercise

U.S. European Command and 35 other countries participated in Cyber Coalition, an annual NATO exercise, conducted from Tallinn, Estonia, Nov. 27 to Dec. 1. Cyber Coalition 2023 focused on simulated responses to cyber threats and enhancing cyber defense posture. (Courtesy photo by Paolo Giordano)

U.S. European Command participated in NATO’s annual Cyber Coalition exercise, which hosted 35 participant countries, the largest number to date, from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1.

Cyber Coalition 2023 expanded on lessons learned from previous exercises, emphasizing coordination and collaboration among EUCOM, participating Allies and partners under NATO’s oversight. The exercise’s main focus was to simulate responses to cyber threats and enhance our cyber defense posture. This involved testing NATO’s capability to request cyberspace operations resources and the capacity of exercise participants to deliver them.

“We use technical challenges to trigger the coordination and collaboration within and between our military and civilian cyberspace stakeholders,” said U.S. Navy Cmdr. Charles Elliott, Cyber Coalition exercise director. “The considerable number of participating Allies and partners increases the exercise complexity helping us to better identify capability gaps and comprehensively test new cyberspace operations procedures.”

The annual exercise was conducted from Tallinn, Estonia, a leading NATO Ally known for its extensive digitization efforts throughout its nation and functioned as the central command and control center. All participating countries participated in the training remotely. Exercise activities included training on the application of international law in cyberspace, validating cyberspace warfare development products and experimenting with new tools.

“Consistently working with our NATO Allies and partners to identify vulnerabilities on their government-operated networks aids in our own cyberspace preparedness through enhanced information-sharing relationships,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. James Cleet, EUCOM deputy director of operations. “These exercises provide us a comprehensive opportunity to bolster collective cyberspace capabilities and are foundational to our overall security commitment to the NATO Alliance and global partners.”

Another key U.S. participant included the 16th Air Force (Air Forces Cyber) providing exercise planning and execution support. Sixteenth Air Force was created to seize and maintain the initiative in the information environment, especially the cyber domain and regularly participates in global cyber and information warfare exercises to prepare for crisis and conflict.  

“This fantastic opportunity allowed us to collaborate, share and effectively integrate cyber security capabilities. We successfully operated across four time zones, assessed each other’s capabilities, and strengthened our great relationships with NATO allies and partners,” said Candace Sanchez,16th Air Force senior joint cyber exercise planner. 

The insights garnered from the Cyber Coalition 2023 exercise, including observations, in-depth analysis, and valuable feedback, play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of future doctrine development, capability enhancements and informed decision-making processes.

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About USEUCOM

U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. USEUCOM is comprised of more than 65,000 permanent military personnel supported by rotational forces and DoD civilians working closely with NATO Allies and partners. The command is one of two U.S. forward-deployed geographic combatant commands headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. For more information about USEUCOM, visit www.eucom.mil.

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USEUCOM, Austrian defense leaders explore opportunities to expand cooperation

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

USEUCOM, Austrian defense leaders explore opportunities to expand cooperation

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, center left, deputy commander, U.S. European Command, and Ambassador Kate Marie Byrnes, left, civilian deputy and foreign policy advisor to U.S. European Command, host Secretary General of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Arnold Kammel, center right, and members of Kammel’s staff at the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Nov. 30, 2023. The meeting, aimed at identifying areas for future military cooperation, builds on a broadening relationship after Austria and the Vermont National Guard formalized their partnership under the State Partnership Program in 2022. As no nation can confront today’s challenges alone, U.S. European Command is committed to preserving the mutual commitment, support and trust we share with our Allies and partners.

USEUCOM, Austrian defense leaders explore opportunities to expand cooperation

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, second from right, deputy commander, U.S. European Command, and Ambassador Kate Marie Byrnes third from left, civilian deputy and foreign policy advisor to U.S. European Command, host Secretary General of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Arnold Kammel, center, and members of Kammel’s staff at the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Nov. 30, 2023. The meeting, aimed at identifying areas for future military cooperation, builds on a broadening relationship after Austria and the Vermont National Guard formalized their partnership under the State Partnership Program in 2022. As no nation can confront today’s challenges alone, U.S. European Command is committed to preserving the mutual commitment, support and trust we share with our Allies and partners.

USEUCOM, Austrian defense leaders explore opportunities to expand cooperation

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, deputy commander, U.S. European Command, presents a gift to Secretary General of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Arnold Kammel, at the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Nov. 30, 2023. The meeting, aimed at identifying areas for future military cooperation, builds on a broadening relationship after Austria and the Vermont National Guard formalized their partnership under the State Partnership Program in 2022. As no nation can confront today’s challenges alone, U.S. European Command is committed to preserving the mutual commitment, support and trust we share with our Allies and partners.

USEUCOM, Austrian defense leaders explore opportunities to expand cooperation

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, right, deputy commander, U.S. European Command, and Ambassador Kate Marie Byrnes, left, civilian deputy and foreign policy advisor to U.S. European Command, host Secretary General of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Arnold Kammel, center, at the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Nov. 30, 2023. The meeting, aimed at identifying areas for future military cooperation, builds on a broadening relationship after Austria and the Vermont National Guard formalized their partnership under the State Partnership Program in 2022. As no nation can confront today’s challenges alone, U.S. European Command is committed to preserving the mutual commitment, support and trust we share with our Allies and partners.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, deputy commander, U.S. European Command, hosted Secretary General of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Arnold Kammel, and members of Kammel’s staff at the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Nov. 30, 2023.

The meeting, aimed at identifying areas for future military cooperation, builds on a broadening relationship after Austria and the Vermont National Guard formalized their partnership under the State Partnership Program in 2022.

“Today’s meeting was another important step toward strengthening our relationship with a long-standing partner in Austria,” said Basham. “Our strategic partnership with Austria already includes cooperation for military mobility, information exchanges and military-to-military engagements through the State Partnership Program. We look forward to furthering our mutual commitment to realize a shared vision for European security.”

The two nations’ military-to-military engagement has steadily increased since partnering via the State Partnership Program, including an air exchange in June in which the Vermont Air National Guard flew F-35s alongside Austrian Eurofighter Typhoons at Hinterstoisser Air Base near Zeltweg, Austria.

“Relations with the USA are of particular importance to Austria. The deepening of the strategic partnership with the USA, anchored in the Austrian government program and the growing State Partnership Program, underline this fact,” said Kammel. “As one of the key players in global security and defense policy, the USA is also relevant for Austria in other areas. Today’s talks mark a further point in the strengthening of joint cooperation.”

The long-standing cooperation between the U.S. and Austria has also included participation in the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation program, which aims to enable movement of military personnel and assets within the borders of the EU. That intra-European movement is pivotal to the U.S.’ ability to successfully conduct military exercises and operations.

The State Partnership Program pairs U.S. National Guard units with Allied and partner militaries within the USEUCOM area of responsibility to facilitate cooperation across all aspects of international civil-military affairs.

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About USEUCOM

U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. USEUCOM is comprised of more than 65,000 permanent military personnel supported by rotational forces and DoD civilians working closely with NATO Allies and partners. As no nation can confront today’s challenges alone, U.S. European Command is committed to preserving the mutual commitment, support and trust we share with our Allies and partners. The command is one of two U.S. forward-deployed geographic combatant commands headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. For more information about USEUCOM, visit www.eucom.mil.

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USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Sailors assigned to the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) participate in a memorial ceremony off the coast of Normandy, France, while in the English Channel, May 26, 2020. Mount Whitney is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Damon Grosvenor)

USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Sailors assigned to the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) participate in a memorial ceremony off the coast of Normandy, France, while in the English Channel, May 26, 2020. Mount Whitney is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Damon Grosvenor)

The U.S. 6th Fleet Blue Ridge-class command-and-control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrived in Larnaca, the Republic of Cyprus, for a scheduled port visit, Nov. 30, 2023.

The USS Mount Whitney is conducting U.S. operations in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, where the ship’s crew and embarked staff will work alongside Allies and partners in support of maritime operations, which encompass naval diplomacy and national efforts to build comprehensive maritime power. The USS Mount Whitney, forward deployed from Gaeta, Italy, operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners in the U.S. Sixth Fleet. The fleet operates in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, including NATO Allies and partner nation naval assets.

The Republic of Cyprus is an important regional partner. Port visits aim to strengthen security and stability and build enduring relationships. Liberty for the ship’s crew and embarked personnel is an opportunity to demonstrate a common commitment to ensure goodwill.

U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. Also headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa has forged strategic relationships with Allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability for over 80 years.

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Statement: Five Servicemembers Killed in U.S. Military Aircraft Mishap in Mediterranean

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

EUCOM logo Shadowed 500×500

During a routine air refueling mission as part of military training, a U.S. military aircraft carrying five service members suffered a mishap and crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. All five of the service members onboard the aircraft were killed. 

Out of respect for the affected families, and in accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the crewmembers are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notifications have been completed.

Search and rescue efforts began immediately, including nearby U.S. military aircraft and ships.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen. An investigation into the crash is underway.

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U.S. European Command is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. EUCOM is comprised of more than 65,000 permanent military personnel supported by rotational forces and DoD civilians working closely with NATO Allies and partners. The command is one of two U.S. forward-deployed geographic combatant commands headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

Source: United States AFRICOM

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany – December 8, 2023 – U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Space Force officially activated the U.S. Space Forces Europe and Africa (SPACEFOREUR-AF) component command at a ceremony in Ramstein, Germany, on Dec. 8, 2023.

SPACEFOREUR-AF is the newest service component under EUCOM and AFRICOM with their permanent headquarters at Ramstein Air Base. EUCOM and AFRICOM are the latest combatant commands to establish a space component, following in the footsteps of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command.

“For Germany, the U.S. are the most important partner in developing and expanding space capabilities. The activation of the U.S. Space Forces Europe and Africa component at Ramstein Air Base emphasizes both the fast-growing military significance of the space domain and the importance of Germany as a reliable ally and base for the U.S. Armed Forces.” said Boris Pistorius, the German Defense Minister “I am confident that this important step will strengthen our already excellent bilateral military partnership in space and accelerate our practical cooperation on this topic of strategic relevance.”

“The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF highlights our dedication to strengthening collaborative space capabilities across the African continent,” stated U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander for AFRICOM. “Our emphasis extends beyond protecting our space assets; we are equally devoted to fostering partnerships and augmenting the command’s capacity to deliver space-related benefits in support of shared missions with African partners.”

SPACEFOREUR-AF will be staffed by approximately 30 service members and commanded by U.S. Space Force Col. Max Lantz. The command will play a significant role in supporting EUCOM’s growing need for space-based capabilities such as satellite navigation, communications and integration with NATO Allies and partners.

RAMSTEIN, Germany “The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF is a testament to our commitment to strengthening the joint space capabilities in this region,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, deputy commander for EUCOM. “Our focus is not only on protecting our space assets but also on enabling and enhancing the command’s ability to provide space effects in support of our missions alongside Allies and partners.” 

The ceremony also featured remarks from the Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, Gen. Chance Saltzman, who emphasized that SPACEFOREUR-AF‘s activation marks a pivotal step in advancing U.S. commitment to space security and cooperation and ensures the continued protection and resilience of U.S. and Allied space assets.

“Today, we will integrate our Space Forces at the component level — something that will provide a cadre of space experts who can work with the Joint Force, our Allies, and partners to integrate space activities into our shared operations, activities, and investments,” Saltzman said. “The joint force’s missions increasingly rely on space and the Space Force is committed to ensuring that the force has the space resources it needs to succeed.”

SPACEFOREUR-AF‘s presence in Europe and Africa will enhance both EUCOM and AFRICOM’s ability to promote security and regional stability, while also building strong and strategic relationships within the realm of space.

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USAFRICOM Commander and Senior Enlisted Leader Travel to Mauritania

Source: United States AFRICOM

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, and Sgt. Maj. Michael Woods, the command’s senior enlisted leader, traveled to Mauritania to meet with civilian and military leaders to discuss security cooperation, Oct. 22-24, 2023.

Langley and Woods further met with U.S. Embassy and military personnel and took part in a cultural event with Mauritanian citizens who participated in U.S. government exchange and English language programs. 

“U.S. Africa Command and Mauritania continue our work together to counter violent extremism in the Sahel and help provide for a more secure and peaceful region,” said Langley. “The relationship between our two countries is about protecting communities and fostering stability and economic opportunities for all Mauritanians.”

On Oct. 23,  Langley, Woods and U.S. Ambassador to Mauritania Cynthia Kierscht met with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and later with Minister of National Defense Mr. Hanana Ould Sidi.

Additionally, the commander met with Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces Maj. Gen. Moctar Bollé Chabane and Mauritanian military service chiefs.

Discussions centered on shared security concerns, including violent extremist organizations and the expanding influence of other destabilizing groups. They also discussed future security cooperation opportunities between U.S. and Mauritanian militaries.

For over a decade, Mauritania has performed an important role in countering terrorist activity and preventing violent extremism as host of the G5 Sahel Executive Secretariat and the G5 Sahel Defense College.

Collaborative security programs between the nations’ militaries have also provided training for Mauritanian units within the country and professional growth opportunities of numerous Mauritanian officers in American military schools, which include training on the importance of civilian control of the military and respect for human rights.

The Mauritanian military has also traditionally participated in the U.S. Africa Command exercises Flintlock and Phoenix Express and hosted Flintlock 2020.

The collaborative programs have helped enhance security within the country, strengthening Mauritania’s defense capabilities and its ability to protect its borders, providing for safer communities, and promoting economic development and open trade.

During the trip, the delegation also met with a small group of Mauritanian citizens who graduated from various U.S. government exchange programs and Access English courses. During the event, Langley shared his thoughts on leadership and perseverance, and participants had the opportunity to ask questions.

More than 545 Mauritanian students and professionals have traveled to the U.S. as part of U.S. Embassy sponsored exchange programs to further academic or career goals. Access English is a global scholarship program supported by the U.S. Department of State that pays for disadvantaged youth to attend after-school English classes for two years, helping to equip students with skills that can lead to further educational and employment opportunities.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil.

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Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Source: United States AFRICOM

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Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, traveled to Libya, September 20-21, to further cooperation between the United States and Libya, and highlight the robust U.S. humanitarian response to the devastating floods.

Langley met with host nation civilian and military leaders, U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officials, and U.S. service members. 

During a visit to Benghazi, Langley and U.S. Special Envoy Ambassador Richard Norland acknowledged the tragic suffering caused by recent flooding in eastern Libya. 

“Our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy,” said Langley. “We commend the unity demonstrated by Libyans from all regions of the country as they come together to aid those in need.”     

U.S. Africa Command airlifted more than 13 metric tons of critical life-saving humanitarian supplies to northeastern Libya. The U.S. Air Force’s 86th Airlift Wing conducted the C-130 airlift mission in support of the USAID response to the floods. To date, the U.S. has provided $12 million in response to this humanitarian disaster.

While in Tripoli, Langley met with Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dabaiba and General Mohamed al-Haddad, Chief of the General Staff, Libyan Armed Forces. In Benghazi, Langley met with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and General Abd al-Razzaq al-Nadhuri, Chief of the General Staff, Libyan Arab Armed Forces.

“It was a pleasure meeting with civilian and military leaders throughout Libya and to discuss ways to bring about a united country,” said Langley. “Libya’s strength lies in its unity. The United States stands ready to reinforce existing bonds and forge new partnerships with those who champion democracy, in pursuit of a safer, more prosperous Libya.”

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. 

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AFRICOM Commander visits Tunisia

Source: United States AFRICOM

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General Langley and Ambassador Hood with Major General Mohamed Hajem (Air Force Chief of Staff) at the Belvedere Officers Club

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General Langley with Marines

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General Langley with the Tunisian Minister of Defense (Imed Memmich) at the Ministry of Defense

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), traveled to Tunisia, September 19, to further cooperation between the United States and Tunisia.  During his visit, Langley met with the Minister of National Defense Imed Memmich and Tunisian military service chiefs to discuss a range of regional security issues of interest to both nations. He also met with U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia Joey Hood and U.S. service members, who he thanked for their service.

U.S.-Tunisian military partnerships have grown tremendously in the past decade as Tunisia has transitioned to become a regional provider of security expertise, including through its support for UN peacekeeping operations.  The recent 35th U.S.-Tunisia Joint Military Commission and our cooperation on Phoenix Express and African Lion military exercises reaffirm our longstanding defense partnership.  “The United States places great importance on its diplomatic ties with the Tunisian government, recognizing Tunisia as a pivotal force in the advancement of regional security, with particular emphasis on maritime and peacekeeping endeavors,” said General Langley. 

He added, “Security, stability, and economic prosperity in North Africa are interests shared by the United States and the Tunisian government and international partners.  We are stronger when we work toward these goals together.”  

Commenting on his engagements with Minister Memmich and others, Langley said, “I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Minister of Defense and senior defense officials to review our cooperation and discuss ways to adapt it to current and future challenges.”    

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. 

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U.S. Africa Command, Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces host the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Africa Command, Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces host the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan

ABIDJAN, CÔTE D’IVOIRE — U.S. Africa Command and the Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces today convened the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, bringing together 50 West African and U.S military logistics leaders.

The two-day conference, titled “Addressing Regional Logistics Challenges, Collaboration and Solutions”, provides a forum for West African attendees to share their own unique experiences and insights and begin to tailor solutions to common logistics challenges.

“Regional military forces have an important role in working together to create logistics solutions that are durable, impactful, and lasting. The West Africa Logistics Conference offers an opportunity for logisticians from 12 West African nations, as well as the African Union and ECOWAS, to discuss shared challenges, collaborate, and work toward solutions together, and I look forward to continuing our partnerships,” said Rear Adm. George Bresnihan, Director of Logistics for U.S. Africa Command. “I want to thank our partners in the Ivoirian military who have worked with U.S. Africa Command over the past year to help make this important conference happen.”

Delivering opening remarks were Rear Adm. Bresnihan, U.S. Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire Jessica Davis Ba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Director of Cabinet for the Ministry of Defense Jean Paul Malan, and Côte d’Ivoire’s Armed Forces Logistics Director Col. Maj. Kirouin Bernabet.

Over the next two days, panels and partner-led discussions will focus, in part, on institutional capacity building; leveraging logistical data to recognize potential problems and improve operational readiness; resource management and methods for informing senior decision makers about logistics gaps and their potential impacts; and the challenges of preparing for and responding to crises, to include internally displaced persons, famine and food shortages, natural disasters, and pandemics.

Countries and organizations represented at the conference include Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Cameroon, Chad, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States.