Bundestag Approves Extension of German Naval Participation in EUNAVFOR ASPIDES
Berlin, January 28, 2025 – The German Bundestag has voted to extend the participation of German naval forces in the European Union Naval Force ASPIDES (EUNAVFOR ASPIDES). The decision, outlined in document 20/14709, follows a request from the German government (Drucksache 20/14044).
Background
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES is a maritime operation launched by the European Union in 2022 to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea. The operation aims to protect shipping and vulnerable coastal communities in the region.
German Contribution
As part of its commitment to EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, Germany has been contributing a frigate and a helicopter to the mission. The extension approved by the Bundestag allows Germany to continue this support until 2027.
Rationale for Extension
The German government argued that the continued participation in EUNAVFOR ASPIDES is crucial for several reasons:
- Stabilizing the Gulf of Guinea: The operation has contributed to reducing piracy and armed robbery in the region, creating a more stable environment for economic development and humanitarian assistance.
- Protecting German interests: Many German commercial vessels pass through the Gulf of Guinea, and the mission helps ensure their safety and the uninterrupted flow of trade.
- Strengthening international cooperation: Germany’s involvement in EUNAVFOR ASPIDES demonstrates its commitment to European security and cooperation in international maritime operations.
Implementation
The extension of German participation in EUNAVFOR ASPIDES will take effect immediately. The German frigate “F217 Schleswig-Holstein” and the helicopter “Sea Lion” will continue to operate under the command of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES.
Reaction
The decision has been welcomed by the German government and the European Union. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said, “Germany’s continued support for EUNAVFOR ASPIDES is a strong signal of our commitment to stability and security in the Gulf of Guinea.”
20/14709: Beschlussempfehlung und Bericht zu dem Antrag der Bundesregierung – Drucksache 20/14044 – Fortsetzung der Beteiligung bewaffneter deutscher Streitkräfte an der durch die Europäische Union geführten Operation European Union Naval Force ASPIDES (EUNAVFOR ASPIDES) (PDF)
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Drucksachen a new article on 2025-01-28 11:00 titled “20/14709: Beschlussempfehlung und Bericht zu dem Antrag der Bundesregierung – Drucksache 20/14044 – Fortsetzung der Beteiligung bewaffneter deutscher Streitkräfte an der durch die Europäische Union geführten Operation European Union Naval Force ASPIDES (EUNAVFOR ASPIDES) (PDF)”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
56