EU to aid Libyan navy to stop human smuggling
(VOVworld) – The European Union will train Libya's naval forces and coastguard to tackle migrant smugglers off Libya’s coast. EU foreign ministers agreed on Monday in Brussels to extend by one year “Operation Sophia”, the EU’s naval mission launched to reduce people smuggling across the Mediterranean and prevent migrants dying at sea. “Operation Sophia” had been planned to expire in June.
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Refugees are shown from the stern of a rescue ship somewhere between Libya and Sicily
(Photo: Reuters) |
Federica Mogherini, the EU’s High representative for Foreign Policy and Security, added 2 further tasks: enhancing Libya’s law enforcement capability and training its coastguard. The help was offered in response to a letter by Libyan President Fayez al-Sarraj.