Happy New Year to everyone; may the Year of the Snake bring good fortune!
The young author wishes everyone a joyous year, with smiles ever-present and good luck naturally coming your way!
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The "freedom of navigation" for the French Navy and merchant ships underwent significant changes and even reversals under Shire's leadership.
Previously, French ships had no freedom whatsoever in the Atlantic; they were essentially under the control of the Royal Navy.
Britain, citing war as the reason, controlled the traffic in most sea areas, especially the English Channel, where all ships had to undergo inspections and be guided and escorted by warships, including French merchant ships and fleets.
Britain's reasons were: inspections to prevent merchant ships from carrying contraband to Germany, guidance and escort to prevent ships from inadvertently entering minefields, and for the safety of all ships.
These seemingly reasonable actions actually disregarded France's territorial rights.
