Speaking of the value of the training, Lieutenant Hassan Oun from the Libyan Navy said:
"Our brief time on HMS Echo afforded myself and my men a useful introduction into hydrographic surveying operations and the continued co-operation between our navies will enhance our ability to conduct our own surveys in the future."
The visit of HMS Echo is the latest demonstration of UK support for Libyan authorities since the UK supported the Libyan people in the revolution in 2011. At their summit in June the G8 announced a multinational effort to train 7,000 members of the Libyan Armed Forces in basic infantry skills in order to help with the government’s reintegration programme.
During her visit HMS Echo also served as the venue for high-level talks between the UK’s Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Peter Wall, and counterparts in the Libyan Armed Forces, on 4 July, to discuss the UK’s pledge to train troops as part of this work.
The UK Minister for International Security Strategy, Dr Andrew Murrison, who visited Libya on board HMS Kent in April 2013, said:
"This government and Britain’s Armed Forces have repeatedly demonstrated our support to a free Libya and we will continue to do everything we can to improve the security of the country.
"Our intervention in 2011 was the start of our partnership with the people of Libya and we will continue to stand by them."
(Source: UK FCO)