Partner Nations

Partner Nations are those countries with which we share common values and the goal of eradicating the scourge of terrorism, and with which we cooperate to safeguard these values and achieve this goal. They play an invaluable role in enhancing U.S. counterterrorism efforts.

The Department of State, with the cooperation and support of other Federal agencies, works to build the political will and practical capacity of other governments to combat terrorism. If these foreign governments do not have the means to counter existing threats within their borders or to prevent a terrorist problem from taking hold, the Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism (S/CT) coordinates the resources of the Department of State, DOD, the Justice Department, the FBI, the CIA, Treasury, Homeland Security, and other agencies to provide the tools and training required.

Due to the U.S. Government's collective efforts, our partner nations have successfully identified and interdicted terrorist groups, passed legislation to criminalize terrorism and terrorist finance that meets international standards, and improved their ability to enforce those laws and prosecute those who violate them.

Partner Nations also teach us about the nature of the enemy and the conditions they exploit. Partner nations possess unique local knowledge, language skills, and the historical and cultural awareness to combat terrorists, eliminate their safe havens and create conditions that prevent terrorism from emerging. Their assistance is indispensable in the global war against terrorism and S/CT works closely with these partners to coordinate joint counterterrorism efforts.