The leaders of CTF 150 and the Djibouti Navy and Coast Guard have reaffirmed their continued joint commitment to protect one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the Bab-el-Mandeb straits.
The Commander of CMF Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, Commodore Asif Khaliq, Pakistan Navy travelled to Djibouti to meet Colonel Abdourahman Aden Cher, Commander Djiboutian Naval Forces, and Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad, Deputy Commander of the Djiboutian Coast Guard.
The commanders discussed ways to enhance their ties and identify opportunities for the Djibouti Navy and Coast Guard to participate in forthcoming CMF operations; to prevent terrorist activity in the region. The Bab-el-Mandeb strait is a strategically important sea line of communication, an attack on which could cause serious disruption to the flow of vital trade goods, with significant impact the global economy.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad said: “The Djibouti Coast Guard is responsible for maritime security along the coast, including the Port of Djibouti, which permits CMF warships and other vessels to refuel and resupply without sailing far from the internationally recommended transit corridor in the Gulf of Aden.
“Terrorism, arms and drug smuggling are the greatest maritime law enforcement threats faced by Djibouti at present. As a result, our ships constantly patrol the waters around Djibouti to counter these activities.”
Commodore Khaliq said: “Working together enhances relationships between CMF and the Djibouti Navy. Furthermore, the participation of Djibouti naval assets during operations provides a great opportunity for training and information sharing.”
Colonel Cher, who reaffirmed the full contribution of his ships and sea riders during forthcoming operations, said: “Despite limited resources, the Djibouti Navy is playing its role in the region to maintain stability and security.”
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) 