CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii -- Military representatives from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and U.S. Pacific Air Forces will meet virtually with People’s Republic of China (PRC) People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and Air Force representatives for the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA) Working Group and Flag Officer annual session Dec. 14-16, 2021.

The MMCA was signed between the U.S. Department of Defense and the PRC Ministry of National Defense in January 1998 to discuss the activities at sea and in the air of the two militaries, to promote safe practices and avoidance of accidents, and establish communications procedures when ships and aircraft encounter each other at sea and in the air.

“The U.S. remains fully committed to its allies and partners to ensure peace and stability in the region,” said U.S. delegation lead Maj. Gen. Chris McPhillips, Director for Strategic Planning and Policy, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. “This agreement with the PRC is intended to enable constructive, results-oriented dialogue that ensures safe operations and maintains regional stability. We are genuine in our desire to have frank conversation, develop mutual understanding, and reduce operational safety risks.”

The United States and PRC have met regularly since 1998 for MMCA dialogue to strengthen military maritime safety, improve operational safety in the air and sea, and reduce risk of miscalculation between the two militaries.