On 14 September, EU NAVFOR flagship, ITS Fasan’s visited Antsiranana port in Madagascar. During the visit the EU NAVFOR Force Commander, Rear Admiral Fabio Gregori, met the President of the Republic of Madagascar, His Excellency Hery Martial Rajaonarimampianina Rakotoarimanana.

The President expressed his appreciation for the European Union’s commitment to maritime safety in the region and took the opportunity to welcome the Force Commander to Madagascar. Rear Admiral Gregori, accompanied by the Commanding Officer of ITS Fasan, Captain Michele Orini, also met the Chief of Defence Staff, the Governor of the Region and the Mayor of Antsiranana.

In addition to the meetings, there was an opportunity for members of the Malagasy Navy to train with the crew of ITS Fasan and develop skills on approach, boarding and inspection techniques which are vital to the maritime security throughout the region.

The engagements EU NAVFOR assets conduct with regional partners are a key element in strengthening maritime security in the Area of Operations which includes the Gulf of Aden and the Western Indian Ocean.  Protection of vulnerable shipping, deterring and repressing piracy remains EU NAVFOR’s main priority throughout the region.