On 9 April 2018, RADM Simone Malvagna, Force Commander (FCDR) of European Union’s Naval Forces currently deployed off the coast of Somalia, welcomed Admiral Abdirizack Dirire Farah, Operational Director of Puntland Maritime Police Force and Colonel Mohamed Ali Hashi, Head of Bossaso Port Maritime Police Unit..
The importance of such meetings is for EU NAVFOR to continue to understand what needs to be done to help develop the maritime capabilities of Somalia. In addition, Op Atalanta remains committed to supporting the development of local maritime forces and build trust and cooperation throughout the Area of Operations.
After being welcomed on board by Commander Giuseppe Lai, ITS Margottini Commanding Officer, the guests were given a presentation on EU NAVFOR’s current counter-piracy efforts followed by a tour of the ship and its facilities.
Visits and joint interactions such as this serve to enhance mutual trust and understanding with local authorities and maritime police forces.