On 22 January 2013, The United States Ambassador Alfonso E. Lenhardt (center) pose for a group photo with course members of National Defense College. The National Defense College Commandant, Lt. Gen. Charles Makakala invited His Excellency Alfonso Lenhardt, the United States Ambassador to Tanzania, to present a lecture on United States national strategy for Africa and Tanzania, to the professional National Defense College students. Ambassador Lenhardt provided an overview of United States policy in Africa focusing the June 2012 Presidential Policy Directive - the United States guiding policy doctrine for sub-Sahara Africa that outlines four United States objectives for Africa which are (1) Strengthen democratic institutions; (2) Spur economic growth, trade and investment; (3) Advance peace and security; and (4) promote opportunity and development. Ambassador Lenhardt then focused on U.S. bilateral assistance to Tanzania, stating that "Presently, the United States is the largest donor to Tanzania, contributing over $740 million in bilateral assistance during 2012. We share a commitment to focus on addressing needs and priorities identified by Tanzanians, to improve life here in Tanzania. But that is only part of the story in our bilateral relationship. The strength of our partnership lies in mutual respect and the common goals we share. Together we are building trade relationships that will benefit Tanzania, East Africa and the United States. And, through our joint efforts in international institutions, such as peacekeeping operations, we together are helping to build a more prosperous and stable world."