BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Naval leaders and subject matter experts from around the Asia-Pacific region gathered to share experiences and discuss the maritime security environment throughout East Asia during the 12th International Seapower Symposium (ISS) in Busan, Republic of Korea (ROK), Oct. 19.

This year's theme, "Changing Maritime Security Environment in East Asia and Measures to Enhance Multilateral Cooperation," seeks to advance maritime cooperation by bringing together the area's foremost naval and maritime services to openly exchange ideas, strengthening the safety, security and prosperity of East Asia.

The symposium, hosted by Adm. Jung Ho-Sub, ROK chief of naval operations, featured 16 guest speakers from across the international community, including keynote speaker Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet.

In his remarks, Aucoin highlighted the importance of maritime security and emphasized the major role the ROK has made in contributing to the stability of the region.

"They have been on the forefront of deterring North Korea and keeping the maritime and air domains accessible," said Aucoin. "They have taken the brunt of [North Korea's] provocation, losing precious lives, but have remained steadfast and restrained in their duty and commitment to peace."

ISS provides a forum for the region's maritime leaders to discuss common maritime challenges and to promote international maritime security cooperation. The discussions offer opportunities for future regional and international collaboration in seeking solutions to global maritime challenges such as humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR).

"Natural and manmade disasters are all too common in the region. But nature alone does not create turmoil. Therefore, it is our duty as security professionals to seek ways to prevent or mitigate such disasters," added Aucoin. "Together, we should actively and collectively seek ways to mitigate disasters by coordinating to appropriately and swiftly respond when called upon."

Rear Adm. Bill Byrne, commander, Naval Forces Korea, concurred with Aucoin's sentiment for a coordinated HADR response, adding that international militaries are increasingly called on to provide disaster relief.

"The United States Navy and our Marine Corps partners are uniquely positioned, through our forward-based global presence to provide tailored force packages to rapidly respond with high-demand capabilities," said Byrne. "Since 2004, the US military deployed to disaster zones over 40 times--the vast majority of which were in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Region."

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea is the regional commander for the U.S. Navy in the Republic of Korea and provides expertise on naval matters to area military commanders, including the commander for the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command and Commander, U.S. Forces Korea.