President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique held a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. On Friday. They talked about combatting terrorism and violent extremist groups in Cabo Delgado, as well as broader security and maritime cooperation.
“Terrorism remains a significant threat to regional security. Both our nations have suffered from terrorism, and we are in this together. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in combating violent extremist groups in northern Mozambique and your collaboration with southern countries. The African Development Community, the European Union, and others demonstrate the power of partnerships in countering violent extremism,” emphasized Lloyd Austin, U.S. Secretary of Defense.
Cabo Delgado, the northernmost province of Mozambique and rich in natural gas resources, has been grappling with an insurgency led by militants associated with the Islamic State group.
“I would like to sincerely thank you, as well as President Biden and the U.S. government, for the support we receive in various areas, ranging from the economy to healthcare and security,” added Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi.
In May of this year, Japan pledged financial support for the counterterrorism efforts.