Somalia: change at the top of the EUTM mission

(To Greater Defense)
09/08/19

Yesterday 8 August in Mogadishu took place the alternation ceremony at the top of the command of the mission in Somalia EUTM-S between the brigadier general Matteo Spreafico, transferor, and the brigadier general Antonello De Sio.

The deputy director of the European Union Military Staff, general of division Giovanni Manione, attended the event, which took place at the International Campus.

Brigadier General Spreafico, after paying tribute to all those who gave their lives for the security and stability of Somalia, summarized the efforts made by the mission during his 13 months of command, congratulating all the staff who with synergistic effort has pursued the objective of supporting Somali institutions in their reconstruction process, to guarantee those conditions of security necessary for the population.

In his speech, Brigadier General Antonello De Sio thanked all the staff of the mission for the exceptional work carried out with the highest professionalism and for the concrete objectives achieved, moreover, by addressing the authorities present, he guaranteed the continuity of a systematic and synergistic commitment with the Somali Ministry of Defense and the community of international organizations present on the territory.

During the ceremony, Brigadier General Spreafico was awarded the highest decoration for European Union operations in support of Defense and Security, the "CSDP Medal for Extraordinary Meritorious Service" of the AMISOM (African Union Mission in Somalia ) for his contribution to the reconstruction of peace and stability in Somalia.

The Italian-led mission in Somalia EUTM-S consists of about 200 soldiers, coming from different countries. Organically it consists of a multinational staff dedicated to planning, organizing and coordinating the training of the Somali Armed Forces, while the conduct of training courses is entrusted to Mentoring, Advising and Training Element, provided by the various nations participating in the mission.