Belgium is set to bolster security measures at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris by dispatching soldiers, joining a roster of foreign nations contributing to safeguarding the event.
La Libre reported this development on Tuesday morning.
In a bid to enhance security preparedness for the Olympics, Ludovine Dedonder, the Minister of Defence (PS), affirmed that Belgium would deploy specialized military units adept in mine clearance, alongside detection dogs. "It is acknowledged that the Belgian Defence possesses expertise in this domain and is frequently sought after for international interventions," noted the French Ministry of Defence. However, the precise number of soldiers to be dispatched remains unconfirmed.
Amidst heightened concerns following the recent terrorist attack on a concert hall in Moscow, claiming over 130 lives, French authorities are exercising increased vigilance for an event expected to converge 15,000 athletes and their delegations, along with millions of spectators. The intricacies of the opening ceremony, particularly a six-kilometer nautical parade, present logistical challenges. In response, the General Directorate of Internal Security has urged the Olympic organizing committee to devise a contingency plan, citing the inherent risks associated with the current approach.
The Olympic Games in Paris are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8.