Pentagon Spokesman Lt Col Phil Ventura provided the following readout:
Today at the Pentagon, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Dr. Celeste Wallander met with the Minister of Defence of Cabo Verde Janine Tatiana Santos Lélis to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation between the United States and Cabo Verde.
During the U.S.-Cabo Verde Bilateral Defense Engagement, held on the margins of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, the leaders discussed the growing U.S.-Cabo Verdean defense relationship, emphasizing maritime security cooperation and Cabo Verde's recent inclusion in the State Partnership Program with the New Hampshire National Guard.
During her conversation with Minister Lélis, Assistant Secretary Wallander remained encouraged by Cabo Verde's commitment to countering illicit maritime activities, strengthening the security partnership, and creating resilient and strong democratic institutions.