Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper met with Tunisian Minister of Defense Ibrahim Bartagi at the Tunisian Ministry of Defense today. Secretary Esper congratulated Minister Bartagi on his recent appointment and highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship. The Secretary joined Minister Bartagi in signing a 10-year “Roadmap for Defense Cooperation,” which builds on the strong, longstanding, and strategic partnership between the two countries and codifies how the United States and Tunisia will work together closely over the next decade to contribute to stability and security in Africa and beyond. Secretary Esper complimented the Tunisian military’s professionalism and capabilities and highlighted its critical role in defending the democratic government against Violent Extremist Organizations. The Secretary also expressed enthusiasm for the growing strength of the United States’ partnership with Tunisia, a Major Non-NATO Ally. The Secretary and Minister of Defense reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to democratic values and sovereignty.