King, Belgium monarch attend joint military drill

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah, the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army, and King Philippe of the Belgians attended a joint military exercise at the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Centre (KASOTC) on Wednesday.

The “AGILE APEX 23” drill was conducted by the King Abdullah II Special Forces Group (the 101st Special Unit) and the Special Forces Group Belgium, according to a Royal Court statement.

The exercise simulated operations in urban areas to counter terrorism and engage in close-quarter combat.

King Abdullah and King Philippe were briefed on the scenario of the drill, which is aimed at bolstering defence cooperation between the two countries and enhancing coordination.

His Majesty and the Belgian monarch also viewed an arms exhibition showcasing the devices, equipment, and ammunition used in the exercise.

King Abdullah and King Philippe commended the professionalism and distinguished skills demonstrated by the participants in the exercise.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Hneiti, Belgium Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder, Belgium’s Ambassador to Jordan Serge Dickschen, and senior officers from the two countries attended the exercise.