Security extension welcomed


The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the extension of EU NAVFOR Operation Atalanta, following a decision by the EU Council, which will continue to see military forces deployed for counter-piracy operations in the Western Indian Ocean until December 2018. ICS secretary-general, Peter Hinchliffe said: “The presence of military forces is an essential component of the package of government actions that has helped to suppress the activities of Somali pirates, in support of the protective measures that continue to be taken by the shipping industry. Ship operators and seafarers will be very pleased that EU NAVFOR has announced its ongoing commitment to these vital counter-piracy activities.