PRESS RELEASE

Public Affairs Office
Embassy of the United States of America
Rue Bartholonie, P.O. Box. 114
Vientiane, Laos.

Tel:  (856-21) 267229
Fax: (856-21) 267160
Website: http://laos.usembassy.gov
December 14, 2007

ADMIRAL KEATING VISITS LAOS

Admiral Timothy J. Keating, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, will visit Laos December 14, 2007, to discuss security issues of mutual interest with senior government and defense leaders. During his visit, Admiral Keating will meet with Vice Foreign Minister Phongsavath Boupha, Vice Minister of National Defense Major General Somphet Thipmala, and National Assembly Vice President Dr. Saisomphone Phomvihane. He will also speak to Lao officials at the Institute of Foreign Affairs on the policy of the United States toward the Asia Pacific region.

This is Admiral Keating's first visit to Laos as the Commander of U.S. Pacific Command. The visit provides an opportunity to broaden the United States – Laos defense relationship and explore opportunities for future engagement such as medical and humanitarian assistance activities and language training. 

Building upon the recent strengthening of the United States and Laos military-to-military relationship, the visit provides a forum to discuss the pace and level of future cooperative military activities.  

Admiral Keating actively seeks cooperation and collaboration with allies and partners in order to achieve effective solutions to common challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.

As the senior commander of United States military air, ground and naval forces in the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas, Admiral Keating's responsibilities include overseeing all U.S. military activities as well as promoting peace and stability in a region encompassing more than 50% of the Earth's surface, traversing 16 time zones, and including 41 countries with approximately 60% of the world's population.