Brussels, 04/11/2008 (Agence Europe) - A major civil protection simulation exercise was kicked off in France on 4 November to test member states' ability to respond to terrorist attack, whether chemical, biological or nuclear.
Known as “VAR 2008”, the large-scale drill testing the effectiveness of European cooperation is organised by the French Presidency from 4-7 November as part of the Community civil protection system. Contributing to the exercise are civil protection teams from seven member states (Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal and Sweden).
The European Commission will finance 75% of the cost of the exercise. (A.N./transl.jl)