In pics: U.S. Navy Under Secretary Gregory Slavonic Reaffirms U.S.-Egypt Military Partnership

Cairo - 12 November 2020: Under Secretary of the Navy Gregory J. Slavonic visited Egypt November 8-10 to reaffirm U.S. support for a strong, secure and prosperous Egypt, our commitment to freedom of navigation, and our continued partnership on security issues.   

Under Secretary Slavonic met key Egyptian defense officials, including the Commander of the Navy, to discuss U.S. support for Egypt’s efforts to monitor and secure its extensive coastline and combat smuggling, trafficking, and piracy. 

The Under Secretary also met the Director of the Suez Canal Authority to discuss safe passage of vessels through the Suez Canal, a vital waterway crucial to the global economy and to regional and global security, through which an estimated twelve percent of all world trade flows. 

“My time in Egypt was very memorable and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to meet with defense officials and have meaningful conversations regarding regional and maritime security and stability,” said Slavonic. “I look forward to strengthening our continued partnership as we work together towards common goals.”  

Since 1946, the United States has provided more than $57 billion in military aid to Egypt, including more than $1 billion annually since 1983.  This aid includes Navy frigates, minesweepers, and patrol craft essential to securing the Suez Canal and Egypt’s maritime borders.  The United States is currently implementing programs worth approximately $2.5 billion in direct support of the Egyptian Navy.