In a demonstration of trans-Atlantic military cooperation, Norwegian State Secretary for the Minister of Defense Anne Marie Aanerud visited II Marine Expeditionary Force headquarters at Camp Lejeune on April 5.
Secretary Aanerud's visit aimed to bolster ties between Norway and II MEF and reinforce the enduring relationship between II MEF and the Norwegian Armed Forces, highlighting those of special interest to Norway, according to a Tuesday press release from II MEF.
During her visit, Secretary Aanerud engaged with senior leaders from II MEF, gaining insight into the force's operational capabilities and ongoing missions.
The Norwegian delegation observed static displays, interacted with Marines and engaged in discussions on topics ranging from interoperability to strategic cooperation in future operations, activities and investments.
Norway and the United States share a long-standing alliance, spanning over seven decades, rooted in mutual respect and a commitment to one another. Visits such as these serve to enhance the understanding of how to integrate and learn from unique military capabilities and best practices, according to the release.
The visit comes following the conclusion of the Norwegian-led Exercise Nordic Response 24, formerly known as Exercise Cold Response, part of a regularly occurring series of exercises in northern Europe in which the U.S. Marine Corps exercises the capability to deploy and train large numbers of Marines and sailors in support of European NATO Allies and partners.
During the exercise, II MEF Marines and sailors worked side-by-side with Norwegian allies across warfighting functions, with integrated logistical, medical and ground combat elements.
As Secretary Aanerud concluded her visit to Camp Lejeune, the release said both parties expressed optimism about the future of bilateral military cooperation and reiterated their commitment to a strong and longstanding alliance built upon mutual trust and interoperability.
