While conducting counter-piracy patrols near to the Somali coastline, EU Naval Force warship, ESPS Rayo, welcomed on board local Somali leaders.

The Somali leaders joined the crew in the Officers’ Wardroom for lunch, where they discussed the piracy situation off the coast of Somalia and other maritime issues.

Before they departed ESPS Rayo, the Somali visitors were given a guided tour of the warship, with sailors from each department explaining their role in providing counter-piracy protection in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden.

Meetings such as this at sea help strengthen cooperation, trust and mutual understanding between the EU Naval Force and civilians who live in the coastal areas of Somalia.