It takes a network to defeat a network, and the Counter Violent Extremist Organization conference today at Joint Base Andrews, Md., is a network in action.
Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford hosted 82 chiefs of defense from all corners of the world to share information, intelligence and best practices to counter the threat from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, al-Qaida and similar organizations.
“We are here today to have a candid exchange of views, and find ways to enhance our effectiveness in dealing with violent extremism,” the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
With real progress being made in the fight against these violent extremists, now is not the time to let up, he said.
Five things to know about the chiefs of defense conference:
1
The Host
This is the third year that Dunford has hosted the conference.
2
By the Numbers
The conference has grown every year, from 43 chiefs in 2016 to 82 this year.
3
The Topics
Participants discussed the threats posed by violent extremist organizations worldwide as well as the important role played by partnerships, alliances and military-to-military contacts in countering these threats.
5
The Keynote
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley was the keynote speaker for the conference dinner at the Library of Congress.
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this story to learn more about the conference.