Rear Admiral Vasileios Gryparis, Commander of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, participated in the 3rd Djibouti Maritime Security Symposium on June 24, 2026, providing an overview of the operation's role in protecting commercial shipping and preserving freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. During the symposium, he stressed the importance of multinational cooperation, interoperability, and enhanced situational awareness in addressing the complex maritime environment.
On June 25, Gryparis held bilateral meetings with EU Ambassador to Djibouti Dr. Denisa-Elena Ionete, Minister of Communication Mohamed Abdoulkader Moussa Helem, and Minister Delegate for the Digital Economy and Innovation Safia Mohamed Ali Gadileh. The discussions reaffirmed shared commitments to strengthening cooperation for maritime safety and stability. Later that day, he met Colonel Wais Omar Bogoreh, Commander of the Djibouti Coast Guard, to exchange views on regional maritime security.
The symposium and bilateral engagements underscore EUNAVFOR ASPIDES' focus on building partnerships with regional actors to ensure security in key maritime routes. The operation, launched in February 2024, aims to protect vessels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and surrounding waters amid ongoing threats from Houthi attacks. The meetings in Djibouti signal continued EU efforts to deepen ties with local authorities and coast guards, enhancing coordination on surveillance and response. No new operational measures or commitments were announced.