- EUNAVFOR MED OPERATION IRINI -

Tripoli recently hosted a significant high‑level engagement aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the European Union and Libya in the maritime security domain. The Commander of EUNAVFOR MED Operation IRINI, Rear Admiral Marco CASAPIERI, paid his first official visit, underscoring the EU’s continued commitment to dialogue, partnership, and stability in the Central Mediterranean.

The visit took place together with the Head of EUDEL Libya, the Ambassador Nicola ORLANDO and they met with Lieutenant General Salaheddin Al Namroush, Chief of Staff of the Libyan Army, to exchange views on the current state and future development of Op. IRINI/Libya cooperation. The dialogue highlighted the importance of sustained engagement, institutional coordination, and long‑term partnership as key elements for promoting security and stability across the Mediterranean region. During his visit, Rear Admiral CASAPIERI held highly constructive meetings with the Commander of the Libyan Navy, the Commander of the Libyan Coast Guard, as well as senior representatives of the Libyan Ministry of  Foreign Affairs. Discussions focused on enhancing operational cooperation, reinforcing mutual trust, and identifying concrete avenues to further support Libya’s maritime authorities.

A key highlight of the visit was Rear Admiral CASAPIERI’s visit of the EU‑funded Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Tripoli. The MRCC plays a pivotal role in coordinating search and rescue activities and represents a tangible outcome of EU support aimed at strengthening Libya’s maritime governance. The visit illustrated the EU’s practical and results‑oriented approach, combining financial assistance with capacity development and local ownership. On this occasion, Operation IRINI reaffirmed its strong commitment to cooperation with Libya within the framework of the EU/Libya partnership. Through tailored training initiatives, Capacity Building & Training (CB&T) activities, and targeted projects, Operation IRINI continues to support the enhancement of Libyan maritime capabilities. These efforts are designed to deliver concrete and mutually beneficial results while contributing to improved maritime security and regional stability.

Rear Admiral Marco CASAPIERI’s first visit to Tripoli marks an important milestone in the continued development of the relationship between Operation IRINI and its Libyan counterparts. It demonstrates the shared understanding that effective maritime security in the Central Mediterranean can only be achieved through close cooperation, sustained dialogue, and a comprehensive partnership approach. The strengthening of Op. IRINI / Libya cooperation represents a meaningful step forward in supporting peace, stability, and security, thus safeguarding the EU’s interests in the Mediterranean region.