Operation Atalanta hosted the Somali Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources on board the Dutch warship, HNLMS Groningen.
The Dutch warship is currently protecting an UN FAO vessel from any potential pirate attack as it deploys fishing aggregating devices (FADs) along the Somali coastline to help develop and improve fishing grounds for Somali fishermen.
The Somali Minister and his deputy were greeted on board the HNLMS Groningen by Commander Hansen.
The Minister was also interviewed by Somalia TV, where he discussed the importance of sustaining local fishing livelihoods along the coast of Somalia by deploying the FADs. Commander Hansen stated; “It is very rewarding for us to assist this project which can improve lives in Somalia.”
EU Naval Force is supporting the UN FAO initiative to develop alternative livelihood for Somalia, and will continue to escort the UN FAO during its deployment along the coast.