Strong working relationships with partner nations are key in maintaining the resonating affinity of EU NAVFOR’s work to keep the free flow of international trade and ensure maritime security around the Horn of Africa. High-level meetings provide a platform for discussions on further developments and reaching common goals.

Following a recent visit by EU NAVFOR Force Commander, Rear Admiral Simone Malvagna, Spanish warship ESPS Meteoro also visited Salalah, where her commanding officer Lieutenant Commander Juan Miguel Evangelista met with the Minister of State and Governor of Dhofar Sayyid Mohammed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, and the Spanish ambassador to Oman, Mr José Antonio Bordallo Huidobro.

The ship’s commander applauded the Government of the Sultanate of Oman, under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, in fostering the spirit of cooperation with other nations. Collaboration and joint activities, such as the recent training exercise conducted in Salalah are imperative in upholding maritime security.

EU NAVFOR assets are regularly operating with the Royal Navy of Oman and continuously strengthening an already solid relationship. ESPS Meteoro continues her six-month deployment in the Western Indian Ocean as part of Operation Atalanta, keeping merchant shipping safe and deterring piracy in the region.