President Reuven Rivlin on Thursday, January 24, 2019, visited a French Air Force base, escorted by IAF Commander Maj-Gen Amikam Norkin and the commander of the French Air Force General Philippe Lavigne. His visit focused on the cooperation between the two forces, which has developed over the years, and included a comprehensive tour of the base to see the variety of combat aircraft stationed there.

“Trying to preserve peace and security around the Mediterranean is not a simple task,” said the president. “It requires constant attention, and for all those who want peace and stability to work together. France, and the French Air Force in particular, play a key role in maintaining regional stability. The unique capabilities of the French armed forces – especially the air force – and the commitment of your people put France at the vanguard of the war on terror. The cooperation between our two armies strengthens us both in fighting terror and preserving regional stability.”

The president added, “we know today that what happens in the Middle East does not stay in the Middle East. When radical fundamentalist forces threaten the Middle East, they also threaten Europe and the entire free world. Unfortunately, the terrorist attacks on France prove that it is not a theoretical threat, but one that demands action. The French Air Force knows that maintaining stability in the Middle East and in Africa, fighting terrorist organizations and terrorist regimes are key to stability and continued prosperity, for France and for all of Europe. In a world where such threats are commonplace, It is vital that we protect, deepen and expand the military cooperation between us in the air, on land, at sea and between our intelligence services.”

Maj-Gen Norkin thanked his French counterpart for his hospitality and said: “some sixty years ago, we signed the first cooperation agreement between our two air forces, and since then we make sure to pass on the tradition of those special links to all our pilots. Just recently, the French Ambassador to Israel was the guest of honor at the ‘Blue Flag’ exercise that we held. We have shared values and face the same threats. I have no doubt that in the future the cooperation between us will continue and grow, to the benefit of both our countries.”

French Air Force commander General Philippe Lavigne told the president: “I believe that cooperation between countries and between air forces is the key to achieving peace. We make every effort to make the best use possible of the resources at our disposal to improve our abilities. The cooperation between us plays a significant role in our force build-up. On behalf of the French Air Force, I am delighted to have this opportunity to welcome you here and thank you for this important visit.”

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem/ photo credits: Haim Zach, GPO)