Defense Secretary Talks With Saudi Defense Minister

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2017 — Defense Secretary Jim Mattis discussed the strong U.S.-Saudi defense partnership in a call yesterday with Saudi Arabia’s defense minister, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said in a readout of the call.

In their first conversation, Mattis thanked the deputy crown prince for his country’s contributions to the efforts to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant around the world, Davis said.

The defense secretary reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-Saudi Arabia strategic relationship, particularly to countering new and emerging security challenges in the Middle East, the spokesman said.

Mattis also noted his desire to consult closely with Saudi Arabia on security issues of mutual concern, Davis said.