Regional challenges facing both militaries and the importance of a strong bilateral partnership in addressing those challenges were the focus of a meeting yesterday between Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Gen. David Munguia Payes, El Salvador's defense minister, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said.
The two leaders met on the sidelines of the Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas in Arequipa, Peru.
Specifically, the two leaders discussed the ongoing problem of drug trafficking, maritime security and natural disasters, Kirby said in a statement summarizing the meeting.
“Secretary Hagel thanked the minister for his leadership and his commitment to strengthening our defense relationship,” the admiral said. “The secretary pledged to continue the close dialogue and cooperation between our two countries.”