Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke by phone Wednesday evening with Brazilian Minister of Defense Jóse Múcio Monteiro. The two leaders discussed the U.S.-Brazil bilateral defense agenda, including positive steps to deepen cooperation on regional and global issues, building on Brazil’s status as a major Non-NATO ally.
During their conversation, the two leaders reaffirmed their mutual commitment to the U.S.-Brazil defense relationship. They also emphasized the importance of ensuring that the armed forces uphold the highest standards with respect to human rights, the rule of law, and democracy.
Secretary Austin noted that he appreciated his visit to Brazil during the successful Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas in 2022 and recognized the role of Brazilian military forces in supporting humanitarian relief efforts in response to recent disasters in Turkiye and Chile. Minister Múcio also shared the steps that the Brazilian military is taking to protect the Amazon region.
The two leaders agreed to maintain an open dialogue and to work together to advance the stability, prosperity, and security of the Western Hemisphere.