A Canadian Defence Team delegation participated in the 37th annual international Military Law and Operations (MILOPS) strategic engagement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from August 3 to 6, reinforcing Canada's commitment to addressing shared security challenges alongside allies and partners.

The delegation, comprising seven Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and one civilian Defence Team member, was led by Lieutenant-General Derek Macaulay, Canada's Senior Military Representative to the Indo-Pacific, and Major-General Robin Holman, Judge Advocate General.

Co-hosted by U.S. Pacific Command and the Malaysian Ministry of Defence, MILOPS brought together approximately 250 military, legal, and policy professionals from more than 30 nations. Through 55 guest speakers and expert panels, participants explored the intersection of law, military operations, and policy while sharing practical approaches to strengthening legal interoperability, operational cooperation, and regional security.

For Canada, participation in MILOPS reflects the priorities outlined in Our North, Strong and Free and Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy. Both recognize that Canada's security and prosperity are strengthened through cooperation with allies and partners, respect for international law, and collective responses to shared security challenges.

Lieutenant-General Macaulay participated in the panel, The Future Security of the Polar Regions, where discussions examined how strategic competition, technological change, climate change, and international law are reshaping the Arctic. He highlighted Canada's approach to safeguarding Arctic sovereignty through sustained military presence, modernized capabilities and close cooperation with allies, including through NORAD and NATO.

"Canada's security is strengthened through trusted partnerships. Whether in the Arctic or the Indo-Pacific, we work alongside allies and partners to uphold international law, reduce the risk of conflict, and promote regional stability," said Lieutenant-General Macaulay.

Major-General Holman joined the panel, Contemporary Legal Challenges and Opportunities in the Indo-Pacific, where discussions focused on the role of international law in maintaining regional stability. He highlighted how shared legal frameworks and legal interoperability enable partners to respond effectively to evolving security challenges while supporting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

"International law is more than a legal framework. It builds trust, strengthens interoperability, and enables partners to operate together effectively in support of peace and security. MILOPS provides an invaluable opportunity to deepen those relationships," said Major-General Holman.

The value of MILOPS extends well beyond the conference venue. The Indo-Pacific is home to many of Canada's largest trading partners and some of the world's busiest maritime trade routes, making regional stability important to Canada's economy and national security. At the same time, safeguarding Canada's Arctic remains essential to protecting Canada's sovereignty and the defence of North America.

By participating in MILOPS, the Canadian Defence Team strengthened the relationships, legal interoperability, and shared understanding that help allies and partners respond collectively to emerging challenges. Those efforts support Canada's national interests and contribute to a safer, more secure future for Canadians.

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