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Peru's Defense Minister meets White House security-defense advisor

Photo: Twitter/Ministry of Defense of Peru

16:00 | Washington D.C. (U.S.), Aug. 10.

Continuing with his schedule in the United States, Peruvian Defense Minister Jorge Chavez Cresta held a meeting with Special Assistant to the U.S. President and National Security Council Senior Director for the Western Hemisphere, Juan Gonzalez.

Within this framework, Gonzalez highlighted the defense of institutionality that Peru has showcased.



Various defense cooperation opportunities between Peru and the U.S. were discussed at the important gathering.


On the second day of activities on American soil on Wednesday, Minister Chavez Cresta held a meeting with U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Mark Wells.


Tuesday

The Peruvian government official began his activities in the U.S. last Tuesday by visiting the Inter-American Defense College, where he discussed with its Director, Major General Richard J. Heitkamp, important cooperation topics to strengthen the development of Peruvian military personnel capabilities.


Afterwards, Minister Chavez Cresta was greeted by National Defense University President, U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Michael T. Plehn, at the headquarters of said educational institution.


Subsequently, the Peruvian Cabinet member met with Ruben Lopez, Deputy Director of the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies whose programs address current security challenges, such as defense governance, transnational threats, and human rights.



On this occasion, the Peruvian high-ranking official also signed the Book of Distinguished Guests at the House of the Soldier.


During the meeting, it was announced that Peru will host the MECODEX hemispheric exercise aimed at responding to natural disasters.

The event will take place in the first half of 2024, which denotes recognition of Peru's leadership in this matter.


Moreover, Minister Chavez Cresta arrived at the Pentagon to meet with General Daniel R. Hokanson, the 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau, with whom the Peruvian government official explored various areas of cooperation such as disaster risk management.

(END) NGB/JCR/JCC/MVB

Published: 8/10/2023