The Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service for Common Security and Defence Policy and Crisis Response, Charles Fries, highlighted during his visit to Mozambique the European Union´s commitment to a solid partnership with the country, and commended the role of  EUTM-Mozambique in training and building capacity of the national forces to address security challenges and protecting the population in the north of the country.

Mr Fries met with the Defence Minister, General Cristovão Chume, and both discussed the EU – Mozambique cooperation, particularly on defence and security, where the former emphasised EU´s important objectives at the end of EUTM 2-years mission, i.e. to ensure that Mozambican forces are well trained, equipped and operate autonomously under international standards on humanitarian and human rights laws.

As he visited the EUTM-Mozambique Training Camp in Katembe, accompanied by the EU Ambassador to Mozambique and Mozambique´s military ranks, Mr Fries was briefed by EUTM brigadier-general Lemos de Pires on the priorities of EU support in the context of the Training Mission, namely, helping Mozambican forces´ capabilities and equipment provision, protecting the civilian population, fighting terrorism, and coordination. EUTM´s mission builds up on EU´s integrated approach in Cabo Delgado, which focuses the aspects of security, humanitarian assistance and development.

As part of the visit to the Camp, Mr Fries witnessed demonstrations of the different training modules for the Mozambican forces personnel and for the local trainers. He left the recommendation to EUTM on the importance of getting all the training equipment sooner for a smooth mission as well as the need for an effective use of those materials.

At the Headquarters of the EUTM in Maputo, he signed the book of honour and interacted with the military personnel to learn of the experiences in the field in both training camps, Katembe and Chimoio.

The EUTM Mozambique two-year mission began its operations in November with a clear mandate of supporting a more efficient and effective response by the Mozambican armed forces to the crisis in the Cabo Delgado province, by providing them with training and capacity building. The military personnel under training will be part of a future Quick Reaction Force.