Bahrain and Japan recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of Japan’s counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia. The event, which took place aboard the Japanese ship MURASAME, showcased Japan’s commitment to securing global maritime routes that are crucial for international trade. Vice Admiral Katsushi OMACHI, Commander-in-Chief of Japan’s Self Defense Fleet, commended Bahrain’s Royal Navy for their role in maintaining regional stability and emphasized the importance of cooperation in defense and trade.
The commemoration event, jointly hosted by Japan’s Ambassador to Bahrain and Vice Admiral OMACHI, was attended by various dignitaries, including H.E. Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa and Commodore Osama Mubarak Al Hamdan of the Bahrain Royal Naval Force. Vice Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of U.S. NAVCENT, U.S. Fifth Fleet, and the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), also recognized Japan’s contributions to safeguarding maritime commerce and countering piracy throughout the years.
Japan’s Ambassador H.E. Asako OKAI highlighted the achievements of Japan’s counter-piracy operations over the past 15 years, including the deployment of numerous vessels and aircraft to escort merchant ships. However, she also warned of a potential increase in piracy activities due to the diversion of military resources to address other threats in the region. H.E. Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa discussed the strengthening ties between Bahrain and Japan, emphasizing the importance of the defense cooperation and exchange memorandum signed during the 2023 Manama Dialogue.
The event emphasized the significance of multinational cooperation within the Combined Maritime Forces, which allows for a coordinated response to piracy and maritime security threats. Vice Admiral OMACHI highlighted the collaboration between Bahrain, Japan, the U.S. Fifth Fleet, and CMF as essential for regional security and the protection of international maritime commerce. The partnership aims to ensure safer seas for all and promote regional stability in the face of evolving threats.
