U.S. 4th Fleet Engages in Maritime Staff Talks with Ecuador

On February 27-28, 2025, Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello hosted Maritime Staff Talks with the Ecuadorian Navy in St. Augustine, Florida. The meeting focused on improving coordination and interoperability, with discussions on upcoming naval exercises and humanitarian efforts. Both Rear Admirals emphasized trust-building and strengthened collaboration for regional security and prosperity.

Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello, the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet, hosted a noteworthy meeting with a delegation from the Ecuadorian Navy in St. Augustine, Florida, on February 27-28. The Maritime Staff Talks (MST) took place at the historic St. Francis Barracks, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding between the two naval forces.

The U.S. delegation, comprised of members from both the Marine Corps and Coast Guard, engaged with Rear Admiral Luis Eduardo Piedra, General Inspector of the Ecuadorian Navy. Rear Admiral Sardiello emphasized that this meeting provided a pivotal opportunity to enhance coordination and interoperability, thereby contributing to the security and prosperity of both nations.

Rear Admiral Piedra mirrored this sentiment, highlighting the talks as vital to building trust. He remarked, “Without a doubt, the efforts made in this successful MST materialized in several action items which will contribute to making both of our countries stronger, safer and more prosperous.”

Key discussions included Ecuador’s involvement in the upcoming UNITAS 2025 exercises, which celebrate the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The delegation also discussed the Continuing Promise 2025 humanitarian deployment, with USNS Comfort set to stop in Ecuador as part of its mission.

The U.S. delegation provided critical updates regarding hybrid fleet operations in the Eastern Pacific. Meanwhile, Ecuador offered insights on mission objectives and maritime operations conducted domestically and regionally, showcasing their naval capabilities.

The MST concluded with a visit to Castillo de San Marcos, where both Rear Admirals engaged in a ceremonial gift exchange and signed minutes reflecting their agreement on key issues and intentions for continued collaboration. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the maritime partnership between the United States and Ecuador.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet serves as a reliable maritime ally for Caribbean, Central, and South American forces, dedicated to promoting unity, stability, and security throughout the region.

The Maritime Staff Talks between the U.S. and Ecuadorian navies represented a significant step towards enhancing regional cooperation and security. With planned joint exercises and humanitarian missions, the discussions underscored both nations’ commitment to mutual prosperity and collaborative efforts in maritime operations. As noted by both Rear Admirals, the strengthening of trust and partnership further solidifies the integral relationship between the United States and Ecuador in the maritime arena.

Original Source: www.dvidshub.net