SANTIAGO, Chile –
Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, commanding general of U.S. Army Pacific, or USARPAC,
conducted an official visit with the Chilean army at the invitation of the
Chilean army commander, Gen. Humberto Oviedo, April 15-16.
While in
Santiago, he met with military and government civilian officials to discuss
bi-lateral topics in the areas of humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and
the importance of the Indo-Asia Pacific region to both the United States and
Chile.
As the commanding general of U.S. Army Pacific, Brooks exercises
administrative control of all U.S. Army forces in the U.S. Pacific Command, or
USPACOM, area of responsibility and performs security programs with 36 countries
from the Indo-Asia Pacific region.
In a full-page interview published
today in the international section of "La Tercera," Chile's largest daily
newspaper, Brooks explained that the biggest threats to the region are natural
disasters. He praised the Chilean military's advanced capabilities and
professionalism that will enable the United States to partner with Chile across
a wide range of areas. He said the United States is looking to increase the
number of exercises and exchanges of military assistance in response to
disasters.
Brooks' visit is a follow-on to Oviedo's visit to the USARPAC
headquarters in August 2014, where they discussed increasing levels in Chilean
army support and observers in USARPAC events and exercises. Both are exploring
ways to address global challenges while strengthening and increasing partnership
and engagement in the region.
In addition to official visits and the
press interview, Brooks gave a presentation at the Chilean War College on
USARPAC's role in the United States' Strategic Rebalance.
Looking to the
future, USARPAC views Chile as a key partner in the Indo-Asia Pacific region.
The U.S.-Chile defense relationship is strong and vibrant based on common values
and shared interests. Both countries are working with like-minded partners to
promote stability and security regionally and globally.