Special Operations Command Africa forces concluded Joint Combined Exercise Training in Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire July 9, 2021. (Credit: AFRICOM.mil)
DIPLOMATIC TIMES STAFF REPORT
Special Operations Command Africa partnered with Côte d’Ivoire Forces Speciales Ivoirennes in a Joint Combined Exercise Training in Abidjan and Yamoussoukro recently to sharpen skills to counter violent extremists. Joint Combined Exercise Training concluded July 9, 2021. The JCET program’s primary purpose is to provide special operations units specific training to hone military skills, according to AFRICOM. JCETs often enhance U.S. relationships with partner nations by developing and maintaining critical military-to-military connections and improving joint and allied readiness and interoperability.
“Training alongside partners not only sharpens our military skills but also builds the relationships we all need in difficult times. We are proud to work alongside our Ivoirian counterparts as they face violent extremist encroachment on their northern border.”
– U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Jamie Sands, commander, U.S. Special Operations Command Africa.
Special Operations Command Africa forces concluded Joint Combined Exercise Training in Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire July 9, 2021. (Credit: AFRICOM.mil)
“Today, the level of professionalism required of those who wear a uniform is higher than ever before,” U.S. Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire Richard Bell said at the closing ceremony. “Security is fundamental to creating an environment conducive to progress. Mutual trust between authorities and civilians is crucial – it is precisely this trust that the enemy is trying to break.”
Special Operations Command Africa forces concluded Joint Combined Exercise Training in Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire July 9, 2021. (Credit: AFRICOM.mil)
These engagements are part of a series of U.S. engagements with the Côte d’Ivoire military that provide opportunities for units to work together, learn from each other, build interoperability, and strengthen relationships, according to AFRICOM. Côte d’Ivoire, a partner contributing to regional security, is scheduled to host one of the training locations for Flintlock 2022. Flintlock is the premier special operations exercise in Africa with 30 participating nations, according to AFRICOM.
