WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson met in London with the First Sea Lord of the United Kingdom, Adm. Sir Philip Jones, Royal Navy and Chief of Naval Staff, Adm. Christophe Prazuck, French Navy, March 27.
This is the first time the three chiefs have held such an event., The importance of such collaboration can't be overstated given the increase in maritime competition worldwide and recent geo-political events.
As a result of the half-day session, the three chiefs of Navy affirmed their commitment to increased interoperability in a signed agreement that stated, "We believe this increased trilateral cooperation will help secure a future that is not only in the interests of our three nations, but in the common interests of our allies, partners, and all likeminded nations who are committed to peace, prosperity, and maritime security."
The U.S., U.K. and French navies have regularly operated together around the world. During this trilateral event, the three chiefs agreed there is room for more joint operations and for enhanced cooperation in the undersea domain and power projection.
Each navy is committed to an open and free maritime system based on respect for international law. Continued trilateral engagement and cooperation is in the interest of each individual country, NATO and the overall maritime community.