Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Adm. Juan Andrés De La Maza Discuss Future Naval Strategies in High-Level Meeting

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti met with Chief of the Chilean Navy Adm. Juan Andrés De La Maza during a formal bilateral engagement at the Inter-American Naval Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, today.

The leaders discussed enhancing maritime capacity in the Pacific, focusing on increased opportunities for Professional Exchange Program officers.

Franchetti congratulated De La Maza on the Chilean Navy’s roles in major bilateral and multinational training events. This included serving as Deputy Commander of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, hosting UNITAS LXV, and launching their new icebreaker, “Almirante Viel.”

The discussion also highlighted Chile’s support of the USS George Washington (CVN 73) Carrier Strike Group during Southern Seas 2024. Future multilateral exercise opportunities were also considered.

Franchetti emphasized Chile’s importance as a strategic ally in Latin America. She noted its significant role in ensuring a democratic, prosperous, and secure Western Hemisphere.