VICTORIA, Seychelles (Feb. 26, 2024) President of the Republic of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan, left, shakes hands with Rear Adm. Calvin M. Foster, U.S. 6th Fleet vice commander, prior to the opening ceremony for exercise Cutlass Express 2024 (CE 24). Cutlass Express 2024, conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Africa and sponsored by U.S. Africa Command, increases the readiness of U.S. forces; enhances maritime domain awareness and collaboration among participating nations; and strengthens the capability of partner nations to combat piracy and counter illicit trafficking and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. (U.S Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Arif Patani)