In order to keep fluent communications with the most relevant EU Shipping Industry representatives, EU NAVFOR Operation Commander visited the European Community Shipowners’ Associations Headquarters in Brussels and was received by its Secretary General, Mr. Martin Dorsman.
During the meeting, in a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere, Vice Admiral Núnez Torrente provided an update on the situation, as well as the latest developments on maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean and expressed his deep commitment to the safety and security of the seafarers transiting, or operating in the area. On his side, the ECSA Secretary General stated the full support of the industry to EU NAVFOR Operation ATALANTA, as key operation to keep the freedom of navigation and trade in the Western Indian Ocean Region.
ECSA is the umbrella for the national shipowners associations of 19 of the European Union Member States, including Norway.
76% of the EU’s external trade is shipped by sea and 40% of the world fleet is controlled by European shipowners.
The ultimate purpose of EU NAVFOR-Somalia is to act as one of the prominent Maritime Security Providers in the Area of Operations. Its model is being studied and replicated in other regions of the world where the shipping industry faces the same challenges. Our coordination with the main actors in this domain is paramount for the success in the implementation of our mandate.
