INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana National Guard and the Republic of Niger announced their partnership Tuesday under the Department of Defense's State Partnership Program.
This program pairs American states and foreign nations to enhance mutual relationships and promote defense and security cooperation objectives established by the United States and its partners.
"We are honored and excited for the opportunity to work alongside the people of Niger," said Maj. Gen. Courtney P. Carr, the adjutant general, Indiana National Guard. "Hoosier Guardsmen are dedicated to deepening our development and security cooperation relationships with our Nigerien partners."
Indiana experience in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and domestic operations will support the U.S. government ongoing diplomatic, development and security efforts to achieve shared goals.
Niger's commitment is a testament to improving the lives of its people and increasing its forces capacity to address security and environment threats.
"This partnership is timely because it offers a great opportunity for the Niger armed forces to further develop its capabilities to face all the major security challenges of the day," said Gen. Seyni Garba, Niger's chief of defense.
The State Partnership Program has been successfully building relationships around the globe for more than 23 years; the number of partnerships increases to 75 with the inclusion of the Republic of Niger.
This partnership is an opportunity for both parties to develop a lasting relationship focused on sharing insight and capabilities while engaging in activities which strengthen democratic institutions, advance peace and security, spur economic growth and enhance military interoperability.
The partnership will be formalized in a ceremony Thursday.