About 150 U.S. Soldiers are working with the 3rd Fijian Infantry Regiment of the Republic of the Fiji Military Force for bilateral military training in Vanua Levu.
This training, named Operation Cartwheel will see soldiers train, work and learn together.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Defence and National Security Manasa Lesuma says Fiji is a maritime nation, and the Pacific is not immune to the security challenges, which threaten peace and stability on other continents.
US Army Brigadier General William R. Burks says their goal of the exercise is to maintain peace and stability in the region and to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Burk added that maintaining peace means that nations need to work together, and strong partnerships need to be established on a strong foundation, so both governments can work seamlessly in the event of a natural disaster or security matters.
The US 351st Civil Affairs Command will also visit schools and conduct community health engagements in Vanua Levu.
The exercise which is hosted by the RFMF and is sponsored by U.S. Army Pacific Command began yesterday in Vanua Levu and will conclude on the 29th of August.
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