STUTTGART, Germany (Oct. 19, 2016) — Military leaders from seven Allied nations will meet here, today, to discuss renewed efforts toward maritime cooperation and interoperability.

The commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, Maj. Gen. Niel E. Nelson will host military leaders from France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom providing a forum to candidly discuss increasing Allied maritime forces’ readiness and cooperation.

“It is likely when we respond to the next crisis or contingency, it will be with our Allies alongside us,” said Nelson. “Improving the interoperability of Allied maritime forces will prove of immense benefit in the years to come.”

NATO interoperability provides the U.S. and Allies with a year-round, maritime-based crisis response force by leveraging the significant amphibious capabilities already residing in Europe.

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa is the Corps’ service component headquarters supporting both geographical combatant commanders for U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command.

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