The German ship MS Hansa Stavanger and its crew are now free again and continuing their voyage to Mombasa/Kenya.

Commenting on this development, Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier today (3 August) issued the following statement:

“I was greatly relieved to learn that the crew of the Hansa Stavanger have been released.

I rejoice with the erstwhile hostages and their families and hope they will together find the strength to come to terms with their ordeal.

I pay tribute to the efforts of the crisis task force in Berlin and all the authorities involved as well as to the ship’s owners, who have worked ceaselessly to resolve this case.”

The crew are in as good shape as can be expected under the circumstances.