In early March, the warship ITS MIMBELLI, currently deployed in support of NATO’s counter-piracy Operation OCEAN SHIELD, wrapped up a port visit to Antisiranana, Madagascar.
The purpose of the visit was to pursue the ongoing cooperation with the Malagasy authorities in efforts to eliminate sea piracy, protect maritime trade and ensure safe navigation in the Indian Ocean, NATO said in a release.
The Commanding Officer of ITS MIMBELLI, Captain Davide Berna, received on board representatives of the regional authorities, while ITS MIMBELLI’s operational teams exercised with the Malagasy Navy, contributing to their own capabilities in combatting piracy and developing their skills in maritime interdiction operations.
The Commanding Officer of the Naval Base, Captain Vahoavy, expressed his appreciation for the excellent opportunity that the presence of NATO forces provided and left a strong desire to intensify this relationship in the Southern Indian Ocean.
During the visit, MIMBELLI’s crew also visited an Antisiranana’s orphanage to provide medical assistance and humanitarian aid, bringing smiles to the faces of Malagasy children.
[mappress] Press Release, March 11, 2014, Image: NATO