Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth hosted a meeting at the Pentagon on April 16 with El Salvador's Minister of Defense, H.E. René Merino Monroy. The discussion centered on U.S. national security interests and defense cooperation between the two nations, according to Department of Defense Spokesman Sean Parnell.
During the meeting, Secretary Hegseth emphasized the importance of the Western Hemisphere as a priority for both the President and the Department of Defense. He commended El Salvador's progress in addressing foreign terrorist organizations and its efforts to enhance military capabilities. Such efforts aim to strengthen cooperation with the United States on shared defense priorities.
Both officials expressed their commitment to expanding existing military collaboration. Secretary Hegseth is hopeful for continued engagement with El Salvador to benefit both countries and their citizens.
