A Real Pirate Movie

Newsletter 2008/12/10 - A Real Pirate Movie
BRUSSELS/BERLIN (Own report) - In spite of the cabinet decisionapproving the deployment of German warships at the Horn of Africa, dueto be announced today, the German Navy is insisting upon new offensive competence. Being allowed to shoot to ward off attacks won't suffice, explain military officials, one must receive permission to actively pursue maritime pirates. This is because of international competition in trying to take control over the maritime trade routes off the East African coast, which also means warding off pirates. Contrary to popular allegations, maritime piracy globally has stagnated at a significantly lower level than recorded at the turn of the century. An increase in activity has been registered only off the coast from Somalia, since Ethiopia invaded that country two years ago in alliance with the West, escalating the war. German media is largely supportive of the military demands for an expansion of its mandate, authorizing it to take the offensive. The use of arms should not only be defensive, but also include offensive. One should not abide by the motto "the important thing is to take part."
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http://www.german-foreign-policy.com/en/fulltext/56209