On 30 June, representatives from the European External Action Service (EEAS), EUDEL Libya and EUNAVFOR MED IRINI held a technical meeting in Rome with a high-level delegation composed of senior military personnel and the Libyan authorities. EU Ambassador to Libya Nicola Orlando said that the working group ‘explored ways to enhance the effectiveness of this EU Operation and to maximize its benefit to Libya and the Libyan people—especially hindering arms deliveries in violation of the UN embargo, but also curbing oil smuggling and human trafficking.’ They also discussed practical initiatives, including in the field of training, equipping and capacity building of Libyan maritime authorities. Operation IRINI said it is ‘ready to receive the requirements from Libyan Institutions and launch the CB&T [Capacity Building and Training] plan in accordance with the EU Integrated Approach, and in cooperation with all the Libyan authorities.
On 1 July, Operation IRINI’s Commander Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi briefed EU Member States’ Ambassadors to Libya on progress in implementing the Operation’s mandate and his vision to deepen its partnership with Libya. Other attendees at the meeting in Rome included senior diplomats, military officials and representatives of UNSMIL and the World Bank. Rinaldi highlighted Irini’s role in enforcing the UN arms embargo despite challenges, its efforts to counter oil and fuel smuggling, and its readiness to support Libya’s maritime authorities through training and capacity building. According to Orlando, Member States reiterated their strong support for Irini’s impartial, strategic contribution to peace and security in Libya and in the Central Mediterranean.