Libyan Coast Guard Officers Participate in Maritime Drill with "Irini" in Malta

Libyan coast guard officers recently participated in a maritime rescue exercise in Malta, conducted by the Maltese Armed Forces in collaboration with the European mission "Irini". The drill, named "Maritime Rescue 26", took place at the rescue coordination center of the Maltese Armed Forces. It simulated a commercial ship facing difficulties, aiming to equip participants with experience in Maltese procedures for coordinating search and rescue operations.

The exercise involved officers from the Libyan Coast Guard and Port Security, a unit under the Ministry of Defense through the Libyan Navy's headquarters in Tripoli. The Maltese Armed Forces organized the event to enhance cooperation and share expertise with international partners. Participants engaged in a simulation of search and rescue operations, following a scenario of a commercial vessel in distress.

The program also included a visit by the Libyan delegation to the Greek frigate participating in the "Irini" operation. They received briefings on firefighting techniques and were officially honored for their efforts in collaborative endeavors. This exchange reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships and share knowledge in maritime security and rescue operations.

The "Irini" mission, officially known as Operation Themis, is a European Union naval operation launched in 2020 to enforce the UN arms embargo on Libya. It also focuses on preventing illegal trafficking and promoting maritime security in the region. The operation involves member states' naval assets and aims to support stability and security in Libya and the Mediterranean.

The participation of Libyan coast guard officers in the Maltese exercise demonstrates progress in international cooperation on maritime security issues. It highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to address common challenges in search and rescue, as well as in combating illicit activities at sea. Such engagements contribute to building capacity and fostering trust among partner nations.

The Maltese Armed Forces have been actively involved in organizing and participating in various international exercises and operations. Their efforts focus on enhancing interoperability with other naval forces and promoting a stable maritime environment. The "Maritime Rescue 26" exercise serves as a testament to Malta's commitment to regional security and cooperation.

The Libyan Coast Guard and Port Security continue to play a critical role in maintaining maritime security within Libyan waters. Their participation in international exercises like "Maritime Rescue 26" underscores their dedication to improving capabilities and coordinating with global partners on issues of mutual concern. This cooperation is essential for addressing maritime challenges effectively.

Key points

• The exercise aimed to enhance the participants' experience with Maltese procedures for coordinating search and rescue operations.