During a port visit to Muscat, the European Union Naval Force flagship, Spanish warship, ESPS Galicia, strengthened relations with the Royal Omani Navy.
After arriving in the port of Muscat, the Force Commander and ESPS Galicia’s Commanding officer welcomed on board the Spanish Ambassador to Oman, His Excellency Mr Juan José Urtasum. All three then made a courtesy call to the Deputy Governor of Muscat, Mr Saud Bin Hilal Albusadi.
On 17th August, they concluded their courtesy calls with a visit to the Acting Commander of the Royal Omani Navy, Commodore Yaqoub Al Kamashki.
During the visit they discussed the piracy threat in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden and the maritime security situation in general.
“You have achieved a great deal by helping to reduce piracy activity. Currently, our main goal is to maintain a secure and stable maritime environment inside our territorial waters." stated Commodore Al Kamashki.
The Force Commander and ESPS Galicia's Commanding officer thanked Commodore Al Kamashki for the support provided by the Royal Omani Navy to European Union Naval Force warships since the beginning of Operation Atalanta.
Salalah and Muscat are two of the main ports that European Union warships visit to re-supply stores and food.
As they departed Muscat port, ESPS Galicia and the Royal Omani Navy patrol ship “Al Najah” conducted a traditional 'sail past' and flashing light exercise.
Exercises such as this help to reinforce mutual understanding and respect between European Union navies and the Royal Navy of Oman.
ESPS Galicia is currently deployed as the flagship of the European Union Naval Force off the coast of Somalia and is tasked to protect vulnerable shipping and World Food Programme vessels, and deter piracy off the coast of Somalia.