For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly and German Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière met in Washington to discuss mutual approaches to advancing security priorities and strengthening transatlantic cooperation. Primary topics of discussion included current threats, counterterrorism, border security, aviation security and cybersecurity. Both Secretary Kelly and Minister de Maizière agreed to continue the close partnership between the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Ministry of Interior, and to enhance joint efforts in these areas, particularly through the established Security Cooperation Group.
“The current threat environment and number of terrorist attacks that have occurred recently requires decisive and coordinated international action. Cooperation between the United States and Germany is essential,” Secretary Kelly emphasized.
“The United States has always been one of Germany’s most important partners, especially in counterterrorism. I am glad to say that cooperation is already excellent but we have nevertheless agreed not only to maintain but to intensify this cooperation,” Minister de Maizière said.
Today’s meeting reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between DHS and the German Federal Ministry of the Interior, as well as the importance of working together to address threats and issues of mutual concern to provide for the safety and security of the citizens of the United States and Germany.
Secretary Kelly and German Interior Minister De Maiziere meet at U.S. Customs and Border Protection headquarters. (DHS Photo/Jetta Disco)
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