PARIS (AP) – France’s government is calling for a two-month extension of the state of emergency that was declared after the deadly Nov. 13 attacks in Paris, the country’s prime minister said Wednesday. The move, which will require parliament’s approval, is intended to cover the European Championship soccer tournament and the Tour de France.
Prime Minister Manuel Valls told France Info radio that the extension of the state of emergency until the end of July will “allow a better response against the terrorist threat” during the June 10-July 10 tournament.
Following attacks in Brussels last month, concerns have been raised that Euro 2016 could be targeted, especially the fan zones where spectators gather to watch games on large screens. Up to 8 million fans are expected to visit the open-air areas, according to French authorities. Tournament organizers have increased the budget for security by 15 percent.
“We must ensure full security” so that Euro 2016 can “be at the same time a celebration with full stadiums and full fan zones,” Valls said.
Valls said the state of emergency will also cover the July 2-24 Tour de France cycling race.