12/06/2019 (Agence Europe) – Member States' ambassadors in the Political and Security Committee agreed on Wednesday 12 June on the appointment of Rear-Admiral Ettore Socci as EU Force Commander for EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia. His appointment was effective the same day. Mr Socci, of the Italian Navy, replaces his compatriot Stefano Turchetto, appointed in August 2018 (see EUROPE 12079/19). Mr Socci was, until now, the military assistant to the Operation Commander. EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia's mandate runs until 30 September 2019, but the maritime operation currently has no naval assets (see EUROPE 12225/25). (CG)