Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met today with President of Kenya William Ruto to discuss the strong U.S.-Kenya bilateral defense relationship and a range of topics, to include regional security and our shared interest in combating terrorism. Secretary Austin expressed deep appreciation for Kenya's partnership and hosting of U.S. forces at Manda Bay. The Secretary also thanked President Ruto for his country's willingness to lead the Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti at the invitation of Haiti and in response to the appeal by the UN Secretary-General.
Secretary Austin also met with Cabinet Secretary of Defence Aden Duale to discuss mutual plans to advance bilateral security priorities and other regional issues of shared importance, particularly Kenya's leadership in countering al-Shabaab in Somalia. The two leaders also signed a new roadmap agreement to guide U.S.-Kenya defense cooperation over the next five years.
