WASHINGTON, May 2, 2017 — Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work hosted Tunisian Defense Minister Farhat Horchani for a meeting at the Pentagon today.

The leaders discussed the importance of the U.S.-Tunisian defense partnership, Tunisia's security situation, and counterterrorism assistance, according to Pentagon spokesperson Navy Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson.

The leaders noted the progress and importance of military training, intelligence sharing and defense cooperation.

Horchani provided great insights and offered ways to address the regional security situation in Northern Africa, Hillson said.

Mattis and Work commended Horchani on Tunisia's recent successes in countering terrorist activities in Tunisia and committed to continuing to grow a strong military relationship with the country, Hillson said.