By John D. Banusiewicz
American Forces Press Service
June 10, 2010 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and his counterpart from the Czech Republic signed an agreement here today that paves the way for the two countries to work together in developing science and technology programs.
In a ceremony held at the U.S. mission to NATO, Gates and Czech Defense Minister Martin Bartak signed documents that provide the legal framework for engagement and cooperation in a variety of science and technology projects, including research, development, testing and evaluation.
"I see this agreement as a manifestation of our relationship with the Czech Republic and our view of the Czech Republic as a valued ally," Gates said at the signing ceremony.
The memorandum of understanding means the two countries have agreed on a general framework that will be followed by separate agreements on specific projects. Asked after the ceremony if those future projects include missile defense, Gates said today's memorandum does not include any specific initiatives, but that missile defense could be a future project.
Bartak noted that the agreement covers more than defense-related research and development. It proves, he said, that cooperation between the United States and the Czech Republic is ongoing, and will continue.
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