Brussels: The Council has adopted a series of decisions to establish three assistance measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) aimed at bolstering the armed forces of Jordan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Chad.
According to European Union, the third bilateral assistance measure under the EPF for Jordan amounts to £35 million, bringing the total support to £55.25 million. This initiative is part of the EU's ongoing engagement with Jordan, highlighted by the recent signing of the EU-Jordan Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership (SCP). The measure aims to enhance Jordan's air defense capabilities, contributing to regional security by providing short-range radars and a local command and control system. This is complemented by necessary supplies and services, including operational and maintenance training.
For the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Council has approved an EPF assistance measure of £10 million to supply the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) with military equipment. This constitutes the second EPF measure for the FARDC, following an initial one in 2023. The support aims to bolster the FARDC's capacity to protect civilians and restore state authority, with non-lethal equipment facilitating command and control, improving deployment conditions, and enhancing medical support and surveillance patrols. Deliveries are expected by the end of 2026.
Meanwhile, the third EPF assistance measure for Chad amounts to £14.5 million, marking the first bilateral EU support to Chad under the EPF. This measure aims to reinforce the Chadian National Army's capacity to safeguard the country's territorial integrity and civilian population. The EU will aid in the professionalization of the army through infrastructure improvements, educational equipment, and curriculum redesign at the Koundoul National Academy for non-commissioned officers.
The European Peace Facility, established in March 2021, is dedicated to financing actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, maintain peace, and strengthen international security. It allows the EU to finance actions designed to bolster the military and defense capacities of third states and international organizations.