Van Ovost stresses logistics, partnership during talks with 42 countries

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. — At the 2024 International Logistics Symposium, Commander of U.S. Transportation Command Air Force Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost highlighted the crucial role of strong alliances, emphasizing that a robust network of global partnerships is essential for success.

“Your commitment to strengthening relations is key to our combined success,” the general said. “Our global alliance and partnership network is a center of gravity for our respective countries. Together, we are formidable.”

More than 120 attendees from 42 countries gathered at U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) from June 3-5 to discuss shared logistics challenges and explore opportunities to remove barriers.

Throughout the three-day symposium, attendees focused on the dynamic global logistics environment. Events included senior leader talks, breakout groups, and discussions on the complex nature of international logistics, mutually beneficial alliances and partnerships, and the strength of working together.

Thomas Maddison, a first-time attendee, and port authority manager in the Marshall Islands, expressed his appreciation for the symposium. He shared that the unique insights he gained from other countries during the conference broadened his perspective, and he eagerly anticipates returning to future symposiums.

“Logistics is something we can learn from each other,” Maddison said. “Each country has its own procedure. It’s important for our countries — my country — to come to this conference and learn and establish connections as much as possible.”

Osel Rengulbai, Palau International Airport’s chief of operations, representing his country’s Bureau of Aviation, echoed similar sentiments about the symposium’s value. 

“Coming to this conference is important because it helps foster relationships with other nations and the U.S. and creates collaboration between all the members attending this symposium,” Rengulbai said.

He also highlighted the broader significance of international cooperation, noting that fostering talks with other nations helps strengthen regional peace and promotes global collaboration.

As the symposium concluded, attendees expressed optimism about the future of global logistics. The event reinforced the importance of open communication and the sharing of knowledge and resources.

Van Ovost called attendees to action: “We, as logisticians, have the microphone on the world stage right now. Whatever we say needs to be deliberate, and we will help solve the hard problems by thinking differently and leading boldly.

“Our partnerships and teamwork are impressive,” she continued. “I hope you leave with deepened relationships with these world logistics leaders and the personal satisfaction that what you do, your profession, makes a difference militarily and economically for your nation.”