The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Laboon (DDG 58) arrived in Batumi, Georgia, for a scheduled port visit, June 26.

Laboon's presence in Georgia reaffirms to partner countries that the U.S. Navy shares a commitment to the common goal of promoting security and stability within the region, while enhancing the interoperability between partner countries.

Quote:

"The Officer and Sailors in LABOON are very excited to experience the culture of this historic area. Our port visit to Georgia allows us to strengthen the bonds between NATO countries as we work toward mutual goals. Port visits like this one provide an opportunity to meet face-to-face with our naval counterparts, enhancing alliances and strengthening relationships."

- Cmdr. Christopher McCallum, USS Laboon (DDG 58) commanding officer

Quick Facts:

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In 2014, USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) made a scheduled port visit to Batumi in August, and U.S. 6th Fleet command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) made a scheduled port visit in October.

Strengthening alliances during the port visit to Batumi demonstrates the shared commitment we have to promote safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance our interoperability with our NATO allies and partners.

Laboon is currently operating in the Black Sea, working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve our maritime forces, maintain regional security, and work towards mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.

Laboon's port visit provides Sailors an opportunity to meet with naval counterparts in order to strengthen bonds for an enhanced partnership.

The U.S. Navy, on a normal and routine basis, operates ships in the Black Sea consistent with the Montreux Convention and International Law.

USS Laboon, homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. The ship deployed from Naval Station Norfolk in February 2015.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.