The Colombian Navy was recognized as a new full member of the Western Pacific Naval Symposium - WPNS, within the framework of its eighteenth version that takes place in Yokohama, Japan. This Naval Conference, considered one of the most important at the international level, aims to increase cooperation and the ability to operate jointly of the Navies of the Western Pacific.
During the meeting, the Naval Institution of Colombia, headed by its Commander Vice Admiral Francisco Cubides Granados, was recognized by the 21 countries attending as a full member of the WPNS, after fulfilling the required requirements, including are: being a Navy with significant strategic interests in the Western Pacific, with waters in the Pacific Ocean; participating continuously as an observer in the WPNS for at least five years; having the demonstrated ability to engage with the Navies to contribute constructively to that Conference; and, also to obtain the membership unanimously supported by all the member countries of the WPNS.
The Western Pacific Naval Symposium brings together the leaders of regional Navies every two years since 1988, with the aim of discussing and carrying out maritime initiatives and issues of mutual interest, such as the fight against transnational organized crime, the protection of living and non-living resources at sea, disaster prevention and care, climate change, and Science, Technology and Innovation.
In addition, this environment leads to the exchange of information and personnel, and the practice and demonstration of Resources that, in turn, contribute to strengthening the bonds of partnership and trust conducted by seafarers; it also works to facilitate the establishment and maintenance of maritime communication lines.
This agreement will led Colombia to continue strengthening diplomatic relations with the main activities in the world and also it is the result of the professionalism of men and women, Sailors of Colombia, who in recent years have increased efforts to project the Naval Institution internationally and continue positioning as a regional and global reference in National Defense and Comprehensive Maritime Security, in order to fulfill the mission and the Naval Development Plan 2042.
During the visit to Japan, the Commander of the Colombian Navy, Vice Admiral Francisco Cubides Granados, held bilateral meetings with the Commanders and leaders of Navies from Canada, South Korea, France, Japan, Peru and Singapore.
Source: Press - Navy of Colombia
