Readout of Meeting between the European Commission and the United States Department of Justice

Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson met U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in Washington, D.C. yesterday to further strengthen the partnership between the United States and the European Union on fighting transnational crime and terrorism.

In their inaugural meeting, the leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation on law enforcement matters and to counter common threats, including those posed by foreign terrorism, domestic violent extremism, cybercrime, online child sexual exploitation and abuse, and the trafficking of humans, drugs, and firearms.

They additionally discussed the need for continued cooperation to combat transborder ransomware attacks, and to address the public safety challenges posed by the use of encryption technology to further criminal activity. The Attorney General and Commissioner committed to further dialogues between the United States and the European Union to help ensure the protection and security of the citizens of both jurisdictions.