Defense Minister José Múcio Monteiro met with US Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby on Wednesday in Cusco, Peru. The meeting, requested by the United States, addressed cooperation in combating drug trafficking during the Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas.
The meeting took place in a climate of cordiality and with convergence of opinions, according to a note from the Brazilian Ministry of Defense. Colby stated that the United States sees Brazil as a great potential partner in combating transnational organized crime.
Múcio expressed interest in the partnership, but explained that combating drug trafficking is the responsibility of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. He cited initiatives by the Brazilian Armed Forces in border regions.
The encounter occurred on the sidelines of the 17th Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas, which brings together delegations from 34 countries. Before the trip, Múcio met with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to prepare for the conversation.
