Abu Dhabi:The European Union plans to extend its Mediterranean naval mission, EUNAVFOR MED IRINI, until March 2029. The mission's scope will expand to include protecting subsea infrastructure and engaging in naval diplomacy with Northern African countries.

According to Emirates News Agency, Initially established in 2020, IRINI is set to take on additional responsibilities, such as monitoring illicit activities, safeguarding infrastructure, and combating migrant smuggling. The current mandate, which expires in March 2027, will be extended for another two years under a draft Council decision obtained by Euronews. This extension includes a budget of £16.88 million.

The mission aims to support efforts to secure critical maritime infrastructure like fiber-optic cables and subsea pipelines. It will also have the capability to test and pilot new technologies for maritime protection.

IRINI's existing tasks involve disrupting the business models of smuggling and trafficking networks. The revised mandate emphasizes regional maritime-security cooperation, using naval diplomacy and exercises to explore opportunities beyond Libya with countries such as Egypt, Tunisia, and Lebanon.