The U.N. World Food Program (WFP) on Wednesday welcomed Canada's decision to deploy a frigate to Somalia to protect the agency's food ships against pirates, who have launched more than 30 attacks so far this year off the east African country's coast. “WFP is grateful for Canada's leadership in protecting our maritime lifeline from piracy. This is a critical moment when more food is needed for a growing number of hungry” people, said WFP country director Peter Goossens. About 90 percent of WFP food aid for Somalia arrives by sea. Since a naval escort system started last November, no escorted ships carrying WFP food have been attacked. WFP said that it hoped other governments would take over from Canada once it completes its mission in a few weeks. Previously, military ships from France, Denmark, and the Netherlands have escorted WFP ships.
