The Philippine Navy is looking forward to working together with its French counterparts with the recent deployment of French assets in the Indo-Pacific region.
Navy Chief Rear Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta shared this remark after French Ambassador to the Philippines, Marie Fontanel, paid a courtesy visit to the Navy headquarters at Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila on Tuesday, January 14.
“Ambassador Fontanel congratulated Rear Admiral Ezpeleta on his recent appointment and discussed upcoming cooperation initiatives including the deployment of the ‘CLEMENCEAU 25′ French carrier strike group in the Indo-Pacific,” the Philippine Navy stated on Thursday.
France is involved in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) modernization program.
“CLEMENCEAU 25” is composed of the aircraft carrier FS Charles De Gaulle, its embarked air group, three escorting frigates, a fleet oiler, and a nuclear-powered attack submarine.
The contingent will sail through the Red Sea before continuing its journey to the Indo-Pacific region.
It departed from its home port in Toulon in late November to commence this deployment.
“We are looking forward to working with you and are very excited to see all the capabilities,” Ezpeleta said of the French Navy’s carrier strike group deployment. He also lauded France’s contributions to the AFP modernization.
Ezpeleta also affirmed the Navy’s commitment to strengthening ties with France, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in ensuring maritime security and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.