Oct
Carter describes our country as a NATO example
October 5th and 6th mark the dates that the United States Secretary of Defense, Ashton Carter, officially visited Spain.
Upon his arrival in Madrid he was received at the Spanish Ministry of Defense by his counterpart, Pedro Morenes, with whom he held a friendly meeting. Later, he visited the National Center for Higher Defense Studies, where he gave a conference in which the main topic was the situation in Syria.
During the joint press conference that took place after the meeting with Minister Morenes, Carter described Spain as an example in NATO, and as one of the strongest U.S. allies in Europe. He highlighted the firm commitment of Spain in the defense of common interests and the valuable contributions of our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. Likewise, Carter was pleased with the latest amendment to the agreement in defense cooperation between both countries and appreciated Spain's positive attitude, which has made possible the increase of US troops deployed at Moron and Rota bases.
The Spanish minister stressed the strong relations between both countries, especially in the areas of security and defense, relations that he described as crucial to foster peace and stability worldwide. “We share principles, values, and interests” remarked Minister Morenes.
In the morning of the 6th, Carter traveled to Moron Air Force Base, where he met with the US contingents stationed there and watched with the Spanish minister of defense, an exercise of in-flight refueling and joint exhibition by the Spanish Marine Brigade and the US Marine Corps. General Francisco Javier Garcia Arnaiz, Spanish Air Force Chief of Staff, was also present during these events.
