Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs

MANAMA, BAHRAIN: Commodore Asim Sohail Malik, Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, visited Mauritius for engagement with Mauritian authorities as part of CTF-150 Regional Engagement Plan. These meetings focused on projecting CTF-150 mission and strengthening cooperation with Mauritius against maritime security challenges in the region. September 16-18

On the first day, Commander CTF-150 met with Mr. Sudheer Maudhoo, Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Mr. Anil Kumar Dip, Mauritius Police Commissioner and Captain CG Binoop, Commandant National Coast Guard. Discussions centered on maritime security concerns of Mauritius and opportunities available for enhancing collaboration with CMF. Formal letter of invitation for Mauritius to join CMF from Vice Admiral George Wikoff, Commander CMF was also handed over to Commissioner of Police. 

The second day involved meetings with Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and Director of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), both of which are regional intergovernmental organizations based in Mauritius and dedicated to enhancing security, trade and sustainable development in Indian Ocean. The two sides discussed avenues of collaboration with CMF to strengthen IOC and IORA’s initiatives in maritime safety as well as combating piracy and transnational crimes. 

During the visit, courtesy call with Mr Frederic Bontems, French Ambassador in Mauritius was also conducted to acknowledge the contributions of French Navy in countering illicit activities off East African coast and the need to continue working together during Pakistan Navy’s command tenure was emphasized. Commodore Asim also attended the reception held onboard French Navy Polar Logistic Support Ship L’ASTROLABE (P-800). The event provided opportunity to highlight CMF efforts and contributions to the larger audience.

The Commander CTF-150 also called on Mr Maneesh Gobin, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of Mauritius. The honorable minister was briefed about CTF-150 mission and it was emphasized that partnership of Mauritius in CMF will be pivotal in improving maritime security around Mauritius. The collaboration will provide opportunities to participate in joint operations with CMF as well as to share intelligence on illicit activities at sea. The minister emphasized collaborative efforts at all levels as secure maritime environment is vital for Mauritius economy as well as to deny use of maritime domain for illicit activities.

Commodore Asim Sohail Malik emphasized that these engagements are critical to foster partnerships and advancing shared goals in the region. “The visit was a valuable step in strengthening relationship of Combined Maritime Forces with Mauritius. The visit provided opportunity to highlight CTF-150 operations being conducted for maritime security as well as CMF capacity building efforts with regional partners to disrupt illegitimate maritime activities ultimately contributing to regional maritime security”, he said.

Key Leadership Engagement is one of the core tasks of CTF 150; these engagements facilitate and promote cooperation with regional countries to combat maritime threats and ensure maritime security in the Area of Operation.