Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel called Italian Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti today to discuss planned Italian contributions to the fight against terrorists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said in a statement issued today.
Kirby’s statement reads as follows:
Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel spoke via telephone with Italian Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti today. Secretary Hagel made the call to pass on his thanks regarding Italy's planned contributions to the anti-ISIL coalition in Iraq.
Secretary Hagel thanked Italy for its proposed contributions, stating that U.S. Central Command will work with Italy's military commanders to determine how best to integrate Italy's contribution into the overall effort. The secretary also thanked Minister Pinotti for Italy's commitment to Afghanistan.
Both leaders pledged to stay in touch moving forward and to continue the close dialogue and cooperation.
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