During a videoconference with the command of both contingents, the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, emphasized the need for the Spanish Armed Forces in Lebanon and the Horn of Africa.
“Totally necessary in times of high international instability,” Robles stated, reaffirming Spain’s commitment to the international coalitions in which it participates. During the meeting, Robles first met with the head of BRILIB XLV, Brigadier General Antonio Ortiz, who highlighted that the contingent, which began its mission on May 10 in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), is in a period of adaptation in a context of high tension. Despite the uncertainty of the scenario, Ortiz assured that the situation is not concerning and that the personnel are committed and motivated.
The minister also addressed the commanders of the frigates ‘Canarias’ and ‘Numancia’, which participate in Operation ‘Atalanta’, one of the main maritime security initiatives of the European Union. The frigate captain Juan David García warned about the resurgence of piracy in the Horn of Africa, which reaffirms the relevance of this mission. Robles thanked the crew members for their work and wished them success in their upcoming tasks.
