"The presence of EU NAVFOR clearly benefits the security and stability of the region."
Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi
Muscat, 08 June 2019—On Saturday morning, the ESPS Navarra's Force Commander, Rear Admiral Ricardo Hernandez visited the Chief of the Oman Navy, Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi at the Oman Navy's Headquarters.
The meeting took place at the end of the ESPS Navarra's port visit in Muscat last week. During the meeting, Rear Admiral Al Raisi expressed his deep gratitude to EU NAVFOR for their presence in the area.
"The presence of EU NAVFOR clearly benefits the security and stability of the region," he said.
EU NAVFOR's port visit on Saturday also included a reception on board the ESPS Navarra, in which twelve other national ambassadors were present: the United States, Brazil, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Hungary, Indonesia, Germany, Egypt, Qatar, Tunisia and Morocco. The reception was held by the the Ambassador of Spain, Hon. Mr. D. Manuel Bordallo Huidobro, under the command of Operation ATALANTA.
Rear Admiral Ricardo Hernandez also delivered a speech, in which he thanked the Omanis for their crucial role in the high-risk area off the Horn of Africa. He stressed that EU NAVFOR is grateful for Oman's role as a regional mediator.
EU NAVFOR forces regularly operate with the Royal Navy of Oman, and are continuously working to strengthen an already sound relationship. Regular meetings provide a platform for discussions regarding further developments and the status of common goals. Strong working relationships with partner nations are key in maintaining the free flow of international trade and ensuring maritime security around the Horn of Africa.