AKIPRESS.COM - Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus met with marines serving in Tajikistan on November 6, Global Security reports.

"Since I took office in 2009, I've traveled more than 1.1 million miles to visit sailors and marines where they are forward deployed," said Mabus. "I do that so I can see first-hand your incredible accomplishments and better understand your challenges. I also use these opportunities to strengthen America's relationships with partners like Tajikistan."

"Around the world, brave marines secure America's diplomatic posts and are the first faces that people see at our embassies," said Mabus. "But tonight, here in Tajikistan, we pause to honor a 240-year tradition of excellence – a tradition reserved for the few, the proud, the marines."

During his visit, Mabus also met with the U.S. Embassy's Charge d'Affaires to discuss engagement between the U.S. Marine Corps and Tajikistan's Ministry of Defense, focusing on further military-to-military cooperation aimed at enhancing security and stability in the region.