Brussels [Belgium], November 6: The European Council in Brussels has approved aid worth €5 million under the European Peace Facility to enhance the operational capabilities of the Congolese navy, enabling it to intensify its patrols in the waters of the Gulf of Guinea, including cooperation with vessels from partner countries conducting maritime security operations in the region as part of the Yaounde Architecture.
As part of this new package, the European Union will provide training for maritime maintenance and relevant support, such as workshops and consumables, to restore the operational capabilities of the Congolese patrol boats.
This package will be consistent with the deployment of EU member states' naval forces in the Gulf of Guinea as part of a coordinated maritime presence to increase situational awareness and support the prevention of unlawful activities at sea.
This decision complements two other aid measures worth €21 million and €5 million, approved on 27th November 2023 and 13th June 2024 respectively, aimed at enhancing the naval capabilities of Ghana, Cameroon, and Benin to support their commitment to the Yaounde Architecture and maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Source: Emirates News Agency
