Sahel-Saharan States' defense ministers resume meetings at level of experts

The Community of Sahel-Saharan States' defense ministers conference on Wednesday resumed meetings at the level of experts.

The conference is attended by 27 Arab and African states, five European countries including Italy, France, Greece, Cyprus and Spain as well as a number of regional and international bodies and organizations. 

The first session of Wednesday's gathering discussed means of enhancing military cooperation among the community members, organizing military sport courses as well as a proposal to establish a center for combating terrorism in Egypt.

The General Command of the Armed Forces have taken all necessary measures to host the conference and secure the attendance of participants in cooperation with the security apparatus.

Strict security measures have been taken to secure the surroundings of Sharm El Sheikh city as elements of the Third Field Army and Special Troops Units were deployed on the main roads and axes leading to the city. 

The get-together comes at a time when there is international and regional attention to the Community of Sahel-Saharan States which fight terrorism especially that this phenomenon is increasing.

The region also witnesses the spread of extremism and chaos which coincide with the rise of weapons trafficking, crime and illegitimate migration.

The international efforts to fight extremism are topped by the US initiatives to cooperate with the Community of Sahel-Saharan States in Mali, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Cameroon and Niger.

Source : MENA