Apart from Angola, General Ward will visit Botswana and South Africa.  General Ward will hold discussions with Senior Angolan political and military leaders on the strategic importance of Africa on fighting terrorism, countering the proliferation of HIV/AIDs, promoting security organizations, and protecting natural resources in the region.  General Ward’s visit is part of the European Command’s stepped-up effort to highlight the importance of Africa to global security. 

Members of the Angolan media are invited to a press opportunity with General Ward during a reception to be hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Angola, Cynthia Efird, in honor of General Ward’s visit on October 22, 2006 at 19:00.  For the reception to be held on the grounds of the U.S. Embassy located at Rua Houari Boumedienne, 32, Miramar, Luanda, media should contact the mission’s Information Assistant, Phil Nelo, (912-475-207) to have access to this event.