HNLMS Johan de Witt Holds Discussions with Somaliland Authorities

On Saturday 25 April the EU Naval Force flagship, HNLMS Johan de Witt, hosted a discussion forum with representatives from the Somaliland Authorities, including Ministers, the Head of the Coast Guard, Attorney General and the Governor and Mayor of Berbera.

Also in attendance were a number of international partners and Non-Governmental Organisations. The forum focused on the strategic vision for the future of the Somaliland Coast Guard in relation to security and development in the coastal regions.

Chaired by EUCAP Nestor’s Deputy Head of Mission, Simonetta Silvestri, and the EU Naval Force Commander, Rear Admiral Jonas Haggren of the Swedish Navy, the forum started with a short seminar lead by EUCAP Nestor’s Senior Maritime Advisor aimed at outlining critical requirements for the future needs of the Coast Guard.

Following the forum, a higher level meeting was convened, with participation from several Somaliland Ministers, the Head of the Somaliland Coast Guard and the Attorney General.

At the meeting it was widely recognised by all attendees that the enhancement of the Somaliland Coast Guard’s capabilities was fundamental to ensure stronger maritime security and economic development.

EUCAP Nestor is a civilian EU mission, under the auspices of the Common Security and Defence Policy, which assists host countries in the Horn of Africa and Western Indian Ocean region in strengthening their capacity to ensure maritime security and in particular to fight piracy.

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Image: EUNAVFOR