Amman, July 13 (Petra) — Nine European countries and Ukraine
announced on Monday in Paris the creation of a “purely defensive”
alliance to develop capabilities to counter ballistic missile threats
across Europe.

According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), a joint declaration issued
by Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain,
Sweden, the United Kingdom and Ukraine said, “We believe that
protecting Europe requires a comprehensive solution consisting of an
integrated missile defence system capable of deterring and defeating
future missile threats.”

The declaration added that “by pooling our defence industrial base,
research capabilities and operational expertise, our goal is to
develop a shared European capability against ballistic missiles.”
The participating countries stressed that the initiative “is not
directed against any people, but rather aims to protect our
populations.”

At least 25 heads of state are expected to attend the Paris meeting,
with some also scheduled to attend the military parade marking
France’s Bastille Day national holiday on July 14.

//Petra// AF