On March 3rd, the Italian Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, H.E. Pierluigi D’Elia, visited the FREMM Luigi Rizzo, flagship of the EUNAVFOR Atalanta Operation, during her port visit in Muscat. After meeting with the crew to extend a warm welcome and express sincere gratitude for their ongoing contributions to current operational activities, H.E. D’Elia welcomed the Ambassadors (or deputies) of Cyprus, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom aboard to provide an update about actions undertaken by the EU naval force.
The meeting emphasized the significance and effectiveness of cooperation in maritime security within the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean regions. The event took place in a cordial atmosphere and provided an important opportunity for dialogue on security and stability issues in the region, particularly regarding the protection of commercial shipping and the need for joint efforts in combating piracy.
The EUNAVFOR Atalanta Operation, led by Italy since February 20 under Rear Admiral Davide Da Pozzo’s command, aims to combat piracy and protect international trade routes. In addition to the FREMM Luigi Rizzo, the force currently includes the Spanish frigate Reina Sofia, both equipped with highly professional personnel and advanced specialist assets, and a Spanish maritime patrol aircraft. The visit to Muscat is part of a broader cooperation program between European naval forces and regional countries, aimed at ensuring cooperative security in the strategic waters of the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.
Source: Italian Navy
