U.S. Deputy Defense Minister spoke about Azerbaijan-U.S. partnership

During a one-day-visit to Baku April 17, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense Michele Flournoy thanked Azerbaijan for its contributions in Afghanistan and cooperation in the efforts to fight violent extremism, calling Azerbaijan a "vital partner of the United States.", the U.S. embassy public affairs office said.   

Flournoy met Saturday with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov and Defense Minister Safar Abiyev.

"Azerbaijan's leadership is demonstrated by the country's commitment to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan", says the statement released by Flournoy at the conclusion of the meetings.

"Azerbaijan is also a leader in that reconstruction effort: Azerbaijanis train Afghan diplomats, doctors, demining teams, police, and border security personnel, and Azerbaijan contributes to reconstruction, including much-needed hospitals and schools", says the statement.

Flournoy also noted, that  over the past several years, Azerbaijani authorities have helped to thwart attacks against U.S. and other foreign interests and "disrupted countless plots".

"We are strong friends and are committed to working together with the Azerbaijani government and people to support the development of a security, democratic, and prosperous state", says the statement.


/Trend/