A number of naval forces have begun the Cutlass Express exercise, an annual event sponsored by US Africa Command (AFRICOM) and held off the east coast of Africa. The exercise focuses on countering illegal trafficking and fishing and piracy and also features search and rescue operations. Nations taking part include Somalia, Tanzania, Kenya, India, Canada and the US.
“The United States of America recognises the importance of a stable and secure East Africa,” said deputy chief of mission of the US Embassy in Djibouti J. Alexander Hamilton. “The success of these countries is largely dependent on a secure environment along the coast and the surrounding seas.”
