NY Gov. Cuomo Makes Surprise Afghanistan Visit

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo arrived in Afghanistan Saturday on a surprise trip with other governors and Defense Department officials. While in the country, Cuomo will receive briefings on counterterrorism and meet with American troops in the country.

Cuomo, who is traveling with Gov. William E. Haslam (Tennessee), Gov. Jeremiah W. Nixon (Missouri) and Gov. Brian E. Sandoval (Nevada), will be briefed by senior U.S. Department of Defense officials on counterterrorism issues that affect New York’s security, Cuomo’s office said. He’ll also be visiting some of the 270 members of the New York National Guard who are currently deployed in Afghanistan.

“During a period of heightened security concerns, we are working closely with our federal partners to increase preparedness at home in New York and protect our citizens from the threat of global terrorism,” said Governor Cuomo. “At the same time, we must never forget the continuing courage and sacrifice of the members of our military serving overseas, who have dedicated their lives to defending our country.”

This is Cuomo’s second trip abroad in recent months, coming after his August visit to Israel.