AQABA, Jordan (NNS) -- The amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) hosted distinguished visitors in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan during a reception in port Aqaba, Jordan, Nov. 19.
Among the visitors was U.S. Ambassador to Jordan Alice G. Wells, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Vice Adm. Kevin M. Donegan, and Commander, Royal Jordanian Navy Brig. Gen. Qasem Fadeel Nahar Tanashat.
During the reception, guests met members of the ship's crew and observed as a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) conducted demonstrations alongside the ship.
"It was important for me to have a ship visit because our naval-to-naval relationship is so strong," said Wells. "The six decades of cooperation we have with the Jordanians is something we need to demonstrate. Today some of the very important people of Jordan have the chance to physically see what we are doing together."
Donegan spoke of the strong partnership between the United States and Jordan.
"There is a lot of history in our partnership and relationship with Jordan," said Donegan. "In particular, the relationship the United States Navy has with the Royal Jordanian Navy is a template for how all strong relationships should be. Together our cooperation contributes to the protection of our maritime infrastructure, which is critical to a secure and stable Jordan, and the secure flow of commerce through the waters of the region."
Arlington's commanding officer, Capt. Sean R. Bailey, said he was honored to show off his ship's capabilities and people.
"The United States shares a special relationship with Jordan, and they are a key strategic partner in the Middle East," Bailey said. "We have a long history of training together and conducting multinational operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. Arlington was very fortunate to have the opportunity to show our gratitude to the leaders of Jordan by hosting a reception on behalf of the U.S. ambassador."
Arlington is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The ship is conducting maritime security operations and working with partners and allies in the region.
For more news from USS Arlington, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/lpd24/.