German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has declared a new initiative to boost anti-terrorism efforts with France in anticipation of the Summer Olympics and the European Football Championship.
This collaboration aims to address the risk of potential terrorist acts during these significant European sports events.
Faeser outlined plans for mutual support between the two nations, stating, “German police will assist at the Paris Olympics, while French officers will be present at the Euro Championship in Germany.”
She highlighted the paramount importance of security at these events for both countries.
Furthermore, Faeser revealed her discussions with French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, confirming their agreement on “close cooperation.”
Earlier this week, Faeser announced heightened border controls throughout Germany for the duration of the European Championship, a preventive measure against the entry of violent criminals, including Islamists, extremists, and hooligans.
The German federal police are tasked with implementing these controls minimally affecting travelers and trade.
Faeser assured that Germany’s security forces are gearing up to counteract various threats, from Islamist violence to cyberattacks, with local authorities focused on thwarting Islamist terrorists’ plans early on.
The European Football Championship is scheduled in Germany from mid-June to mid-July, while the Olympics are set in Paris from July 26 to August 11.
Reports have surfaced about Islamist plots targeting several European locations, including Christmas church services, leading to multiple arrests.
Following a terrorist incident at Russia’s Crocus City Hall shopping center, France heightened its terrorist threat level to the utmost, with intensified screenings of individuals from Central Asia.
Additionally, concerns about a potential terrorist threat prompted French intelligence to suggest cancelling the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony, especially in the wake of an attack in the Moscow region.
