WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement after meeting with British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, National Security Adviser Sir Mark Lyall Grant, and Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nick Houghton.

“I had a great visit where we discussed the current UK national security posture and our continued close working relationship in the fight against radical Islam. As Americans, we have had no better partner in the fight against radical Islam than the United Kingdom.

“They understand the need to accelerate the demise of ISIL in Iraq and Syria as well as the need to provide stability to the Iraqi security forces. They will continue their role in Afghanistan and understand the growing threats in Libya. While there has been some progress against ISIL’s growing influence in Libya, it remains a problem which must be dealt with and NATO could play an important role. The longer we wait to stabilize Libya, the more danger it will pose to Europe as well as the American homeland.

“While there remains a great deal of uncertainty about future economic relationships in light of the Brexit vote, I fully expect we will continue to have a strong national security working relationship with the UK.

“I appreciate these leader’s time and look forward to a continued close working relationship between our two nations and our shared national security interests. Like all Americans, I am truly grateful for the UK’s continued cooperation and friendship.”

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