Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met with Slovak Minister of Defence Jaroslav Nad' at the Pentagon to reaffirm the close bilateral defense relationship between the United States and Slovakia. The two leaders discussed the importance of transatlantic unity, cooperation in defense modernization, and deepening the substantial defense ties between the United States and the Slovak Republic.
The Secretary commended the Slovak Republic as a security provider, as exemplified by its contributions in global operations and its support to the recent historic airlift from Afghanistan. He recognized Slovakia's significant contributions to NATO capabilities, including our partnership on F-16s and Blackhawk helicopters, and looks forward to exploring future defense industry cooperation. The leaders agreed to establish a High-Level Defense Group (HLDG) and hope to conclude negotiations on a mutually beneficial Defense Cooperation Agreement soon.
