China’s Navy is embarking on “new historic missions” that reflect China’s interest in expanding its operational reach and global influence. From cooperative piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden, to China’s first participation in the Rim of the Pacific naval exercise, to chance encounters in the South and East China Seas, the U.S. and Chinese Navies are expanding the boundaries of their burgeoning relationship.

Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jonathan Greenert recently returned from visiting his counterpart, Admiral Wu Shengli of the People's Liberation Army Navy, in Beijing. This visit marked the fourth major interaction between Greenert and Wu in the past year, and is a clear indication of both countries’ desire to develop this relationship. During the most recent visit, the two navy heads continued their discussions on ways to improve cooperation, and steps to increase their mutual confidence.

Admiral Jonathan Greenert shared his thoughts on the Asia-Pacific rebalance and the U.S. Navy’s relationship with the People’s Liberation Army Navy. Douglas H. Paal moderated.

Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert

Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. His career as a submariner includes assignments aboard USS Flying Fish (SSN 673), USS Tautog (SSN 639), Submarine NR-1, USS Michigan (SSBN 727), and command of USS Honolulu (SSN 718). Subsequent fleet command assignments include commander, Submarine Squadron 11; commander, U.S. Naval Forces Marianas; commander, U.S. 7th Fleet; and commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Greenert became the 30th chief of naval operations in September 2011.

Douglas H. Paal

Douglas H. Paal is vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. He previously served as vice chairman of JPMorgan Chase International and was an unofficial U.S. representative to Taiwan as director of the American Institute in Taiwan