The Chairman of the EU Military Committee (CEUMC) General Mikhail KOSTARAKOS visits EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia Headquarters
On December 11, General Mikhail KOSTARAKOS, Chairman of the EU Military Committee paid his first visit to the Headquarters of the European Mission launched to counter the traffic of human beings in the Central Mediterranean Sea.
Arriving at the HQ, General KOSTARAKOS was welcomed by the Operation Commander, Rear Admiral (UH) Enrico Credendino, who escorted him throughout the headquarters and provided an update about the current situation on the field.
Furthermore, a videoconference connection with the at sea Flagship, Italian Light Aircraft Carrier GARIBALDI, provided the occasion to receive a detailed report about the activity at sea in during the second phase in International Waters, from the EUNAVFOR MED Force Commander, Rear Admiral (LH) Andrea Gueglio.
“You gave me a very professional update that shows the level of cooperation and synchronization you have here in this staff and with people operating at sea. That is why you have results”. This has been the final comment ofGeneral KOSTARAKOS upon conclusion of the visit.
The European Union Military Committee (EUMC) is the highest military body set up in order to provide the Political and Security Committee (PSC) with advice and recommendations on military matters.
EUNAVFOR MED operation SOPHIA, launched on the 22nd of June 2015, has entered its second phase last October 7th. Until now the Operation contributed to save more than 7000 people while 43 people have been reported to the Italian Authorities as possible smugglers.