CAMP H.M. SMITH, HAWAII -- The annual Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defense (CHOD) conference, co-hosted by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, will take place virtually from August 24-25 with senior military leaders from 28 countries scheduled to participate.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Advancing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific”.

In its 22nd year, the conference provides a forum for military leaders from throughout the region to strengthen military-to-military relationships, discuss emerging defense issues, and foster regional cooperation.

“It is critical we continue to engage with our allies and partners as we learn how to best operate in this new COVID environment,” said Adm. Phil Davidson, the Commander for INDOPACOM and the co-host for CHODs 2020. “With the unprecedented challenges currently facing the Indo-Pacific, it is the strength of our partnerships and our collective capabilities that will enable us to successfully confront these challenges and continue to advance a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

Originally scheduled to take place in Fiji, this year’s conference will be held virtually.

"I was looking forward to welcoming my fellow CHODs to Fiji at this time, but COVID-19 has dictated otherwise,” said Rear Adm. Viliame Naupoto, the Commander for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and co-host for this year’s conference. “Even though now virtual, the conference still offers this wonderful opportunity to discuss mutual security challenges, and with the COVID-19 security implications high on everyone's agenda, the timing of this conference is perfect."

Planned sessions during the conference include the national security implications of COVID-19, the national security implications of 5G mobile technologies, and the role of multilateralism in advancing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

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Point of Contact: USINDOPACOM Public Affairs Office at 808-477-1341 or pacom.j0pac.duty.pao@navy.mil