U.S. Government
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 10:18
United States Africa Command protects and defends the national security interests of the United States by strengthening the defense capabilities of African states and regional organizations, and, when directed, conducts military operations, in order to deter and defeat transnational threats and to provide a security environment conducive to good governance and development.
This year marks the fifth anniversary of the formation of the command. Since our start in 2008, our operational capabilities and capacities have markedly increased. In parallel, our relationship with African partners and our security cooperation engagements have matured in both focus and effectiveness. Our integrated approach seeks to address the greatest near-term threats to our national security while simultaneously building long-term partnerships and fostering regional cooperation.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 10:04
Mali is facing a complex emergency: a political crisis, recovery from a major drought, and threats to internal and regional security. I would like to provide an update on the current situation and how it has affected our programming, as well as outline the key factors that are needed for development to progress.
Testimony by Assistant Secretary Johnnie Carson, Bureau of African Affairs, U.S. Department of State
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 09:48
Mali's March 21, 2012, military coup d'etat ended two decades of Malian democracy, resulted in the loss of the northern Mali to extremist groups, and further destabilized an already fragile Sahel region. Mali is now facing four distinct but overlapping challenges - the restoration of democratic governance, political negotiations with northern groups that reject extremism, al Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb's expanded presence in northern Mali, and an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Mali, regional partners, and the international community must respond to each of these challenges simultaneously. Our response to any one of these challenges must not be dependent on the achievement of another.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 09:33
After two decades of violence and political upheaval in DRC, we realize how easy it might be for U.S. leaders and the world to give up Congo. From MONUSCO, to the FARDC to the Congolese government, it seems as though none of the major institutions are functioning well or are truly committed to a lasting peace.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 09:05
There now exists a better chance for peace in eastern Congo than at any time since the current deadly cycle of conflict began in the mid-1990s. A number of variables contribute to this unique opportunity.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 07:36
I join President Obama and all Americans in congratulating Ibrahim Boubacar Keita on his election as President of the Republic of Mali.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 07:34
I am pleased to be here today for the ninth working group session of the U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission. This forum reflects the strong partnership of our two nations, a partnership that is one of our most important in Africa and for good reason. Your nation is a leader for regional stability and a key driver of economic growth on the continent and beyond. Nigeria is poised to become Africa’s largest economy. Nigeria’s prosperity and stability reverberate in the region and across Africa.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 00:00
Forces from 19 nations took part in simulated training scenarios focused on ensuring the defense of the Panama Canal.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 00:00
The U.S. Department of the Treasury today designated Venezuelan national, Vassyly Kotosky Villarroel Ramirez, as a drug kingpin pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act).
Thursday, August 22, 2013 - 00:00
The U.S. Department of the Treasury today designated Jairo Estuardo Orellana Morales, a violent Guatemalan narcotics trafficker, as a Specially Designated Narcotics Trafficker (SDNT) pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act)