Stethem arrives in Shanghai to promote xooperation with PLA(N) East Sea Fleet

31, CHINA

11.16.2015

Courtesy Story

Commander, Task Force 70 / Carrier Strike Group 5

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin V. Cunningham, USS Stethem Public Affairs

SHANGHAI, China – Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Shanghai, China Nov. 16 for a scheduled port visit.

Stethem’s visit promotes maritime cooperation and reinforces a positive naval relationship with the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA(N)) East Sea Fleet.

"We look forward to this opportunity to strengthen the existing relations between our navies,” said Stethem's commanding officer, Cmdr. Harry L. Marsh. “Our ship had the honor of being hosted by the PLA(N) just last July in Qingdao. This port visit will give our Sailors and those of the PLA(N) a chance to foster the relationship that began at our last visit and share their experiences and cultures with one another.”

During the visit to Shanghai, Stethem will attend a reception and ship visits hosted by the PLA(N) and reciprocate in kind. The scheduled events will allow Sailors from both nations to interact, exchange experiences and gain an understanding of one another through their shared maritime interests. Stethem Sailors will be afforded the opportunity to explore Shanghai through tours organized by the ship’s Morale and Welfare Recreation (MWR) program and participate in a friendly basketball game with members of the East Sea Fleet.

Stethem, forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan and a member of Destroyer Squadron 15, is on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of operation supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

• Date Taken: 11.16.2015
• Date Posted: 11.16.2015 04:28
• Story ID: 182017
• Location: 31, CN