Brussels, 16/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 16 July, the EU Council of Ministers approved the launch of a new civilian Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission, EUCAP Nestor, to support regional maritime capacity-building in the Horn of Africa and Western Indian Ocean states.
EUCAP Nestor is part of the EU's comprehensive approach to fighting piracy and instability in the region. A team of around 175 people will work to reinforce the capacity of states in the region to effectively govern their territorial waters. Djibouti, Kenya, the Seychelles and Somalia have accepted the EU's offer of assistance. The mission will be extended to support Tanzania as soon as possible. The new mission has two main objectives: strengthening the sea-going maritime capacities in the countries in the region (with the exception of Somalia) and, in Somalia, the training of a coastal police force and of judges. It will give expert advice on legal, policy and operational matters concerning maritime security, deliver coast guard training and help to procure the necessary equipment. EUCAP Nestor will initially last for two years and have its headquarters in Djibouti. Training will take place both in the Djibouti regional training centre and in the countries concerned. A budget of €22.8 million has been allocated. (LC/transl.rt)