Source: United States Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland met Wednesday in Washington, D.C., with Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Vincent Van Quickenborne.
In the meeting the Attorney General and Minister Van Quickenborne acknowledged and committed to strengthening the extraordinary law enforcement relationship between the United States and Belgium.
The leaders discussed their joint law enforcement efforts, which have resulted in the successful investigation and prosecution of transnational organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism, among others. They also discussed cooperation in investigating and prosecuting Russian war crimes in Ukraine.
“Our ability to combat transnational crime and protect Americans from threats to our national security depends on the strength of our international partnerships,” said Attorney General Garland. “Belgium has been an invaluable law enforcement partner to the United States, and we look forward to finding ways to deepen our collaboration and coordination as we work together to keep our citizens safe and uphold the Rule of Law.”
Both leaders also agreed to enhance cross-Atlantic collaboration and information sharing to further disrupt transnational organized crime and drug trafficking, deny safe haven to violent criminals, and counter domestic and foreign terrorism.
Yesterday, FBI Director Christopher Wray and DEA Administrator Anne Milgram held separate meetings with Minister Van Quickenborne to discuss efforts to combat transnational organized crime, terrorism, and drug trafficking.