The U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) convened a significant country coordination meeting in Monrovia, Liberia, from December 11-13, 2024, with key Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and the U.S. Department of Défense representatives.
The meeting, led by U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Shawn Holtz, USAFRICOM’s deputy director for strategy, engagements, and programs, and Brig. Gen. Davidson F. Forleh, the AFL Chief of Staff, marked a pivotal moment in the longstanding defense partnership between the two nations.
The event focused on a range of critical regional security issues, including border security, maritime security, combating violent extremist organizations, and the impact of climate change on security operations. It also allowed both parties to explore areas for further collaboration, training, and participation in future U.S. military exercises.
The bilateral discussions reaffirmed the strong ties between the U.S. and Liberia, with both delegations honoring the historic relationship that has seen Liberia’s active participation in regional peacekeeping efforts.
The meeting also acknowledged Liberia’s significant contributions to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), where Liberian peacekeepers served from 2013 until the mission’s closure in 2023.
In addition to the country coordination meeting, Brig. Gen. Holtz held several courtesy calls with Liberia’s military leadership, including the Military Advisor to the President, the Deputy Minister of Defense for Administration, and the Chief of Staff of the AFL, further strengthening the defense collaboration between the two nations.
