During HSwMS Carlskrona’s recent visit to Djibouti, the Commanding Officer, Commander Mathias Jansson, was delighted to welcome on board Swedish Defence Minister, Karin Enström.
The Defence Minister began her visit to Djibouti by visiting the Swedish Support Unit located on the French military base in Djibouti. She then went on board Carlskrona, where, after receiving a presentation on the warship’s activities as part of the EU’s counter piracy Operation Atalanta , the Defence Minister had the opportunity to meet members of the ship’s crew.
During a demonstration on the helicopter deck, the Defence Minister said “You are doing a fantastic job and have already shown that you are making a difference in Operation Atalanta. I would like to take this opportunity to convey a message to your relatives who through their support, play a vital part in your efforts.”
For the visit, the Defence Minister was accompanied by Rear Admiral Jan Thörnqvist, Chief of Staff of the Royal Swedish Navy and Commander Maritime Component Command. The Admiral had previously been the Force commander of EU NAVFOR from April to August 2010.
HSwMS Carlskrona has been conducting counter piracy operations off the Horn of Africa since 6 April 2013.
[mappress] Press Release, May 10, 2013; Image: EU Navfor