04-06-2025
CTF-151 Commander Strengthens Regional Ties to Bolster Counter-Piracy Cooperation
Commodore Sohail Azmie of the Pakistan Navy, Commander of the Combined Maritime Forces' (CMF) Counter-Piracy Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151), continues to engage with key regional maritime leaders as part of ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in the fight against piracy.
As part of his Key Leadership Engagements (KLEs), Commodore Azmie held a video teleconference on May 20, 2025, with Brigadier General Abdiwahab Abdullahi Omar, Chief of the Somali Navy and Coast Guard. The meeting focused on gaining first-hand insights into the current maritime security situation in Somali waters, assessing its impact on piracy and armed robbery, and identifying areas for closer collaboration between the Somali forces and CMF/CTF-151.
Commodore Azmie emphasized the critical importance of information sharing and consistent dialogue between CMF and partner nations to ensure the success of regional and international counter-piracy operations.
In turn, Brig. Gen. Abdiwahab reaffirmed Somalia's commitment to strengthening cooperation with CTF-151 and enhancing joint efforts to safeguard maritime trade routes in the region.
Continuing his diplomatic outreach, Commodore Azmie visited the headquarters of the Bahrain Coast Guard on May 28, where he met with Brigadier Muzammil Zaeem Awan, Commander of the Bahrain Coast Guard. The meeting explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration between CMF and the Kingdom's Coast Guard.
During the visit, Commodore Azmie provided a detailed overview of the missions of CMF and CTF-151 and reiterated the importance of regional partnerships in maintaining maritime security and ensuring safe passage for global trade.
Brigadier Awan expressed Bahrain's steadfast support for CMF's mission and praised the coalition's role in upholding security across regional waters.
These engagements reflect CTF-151's ongoing commitment to fostering trust, building partnerships, and enabling effective maritime cooperation to counter piracy threats and secure international sea lanes.
