Belgium will send soldiers to Paris to strengthen security at Olympic Games
Belgium will be among the several foreign countries to send soldiers to France in an attempt to strengthen security at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. La Libre reported this on Tuesday morning.
In preparations to tighten security for the Olympics, minister of defence, Ludovine Dedonder (PS) confirmed that Belgium will send several units specialised in military mine clearing as well as detection dogs. "It is recognised that the Belgian Defence has expertise in this area and is regularly requested for international interventions," the French Ministry of Defence stated. The number of soldiers has not yet been confirmed.
Following the recent terror attack on a concert hall in Moscow, which killed more than 130 people, French authorities are aiming to be extra cautious for an event that will bring 15,000 athletes and their delegations together in addition to the millions of spectators. The opening ceremony, in particular, poses difficulty with a nautical parade covering six kilometres. The General Directorate of Internal Security has asked the Olympic organising committee for a "Plan B" citing the dangers of this option.
The Olympic Games in Paris run from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8.
Photo ©EMMANUEL DUNAND / AFP
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