The Presidency of the EU condemns the recent acts of piracy perpetrated by Somali pirates off the coast of Somalia. A few days ago a French yacht was attacked, and yesterday the pirates boarded a Spanish trawler. The Presidency of the EU expresses its deep concern for the violent nature of those acts which have been taking place repeatedly in the last months.
The Presidency of the EU considers that those piracy activities are a major hindrance to the European efforts towards the political stability of Somalia, as well as the normal relations between Somalia and the rest of the world, including the deliverance of humanitarian assistance provided to this country.
The Presidency of the EU believes that a strong international effort is needed in order to find an adequate solution to this problem. This effort should be made in close cooperation with other international actors, particularly in the framework of the UN.
