“This is the classic approach of host countries when organizing major international events,” the ministry added.
The report said France will send 200 military police to the 2022 soccer World Cup in Qatar and welcomed 160 officers from other European security forces to the Rugby World Cup, which France hosted last year. It pointed out.
Separately, France's Ministry of Defense has also asked foreign countries for a “small number” of military personnel who can assist with “very specific” tasks at the Games, including sniffer dog teams, Army Chief of Staff spokesman Pierre Godillier said. the colonel stated.
Poland's defense minister said his country would send soldiers to the Paris Games. The Polish military delegation, which also includes dog trainers, said its “main purpose is to carry out activities related to the detection of explosives and the prevention of terrorist phenomena.” Minister Wladysław Kosiniak-Kamisz posted on X.
Security is the biggest challenge for organizers of the Paris Games, which are expected to draw as many as 15 million visitors during the July 26-August event after repeated deadly attacks by Islamic extremists. 11 Olympic and Paralympic Games will follow.
Safety concerns have been particularly heightened during the opening ceremony, which involves boats sailing along the Seine and a large crowd watching from the embankment.
The French government has stepped up its alert to the highest level after a recent deadly attack on a concert hall in Russia, with Islamic State claiming responsibility.
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced the decision in a post on X, saying authorities were “taking into account the Islamic State's claim of responsibility for the[Moscow]attack and the threat that poses to our country.”
Associated Press writer Monika Szyślovska in Warsaw contributed.
AP Olympic coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games
