Italy is increasing security measures for this weekend’s meeting of EU leaders in Rome after the terrorist attack on London’s Westminster Palace on Wednesday.
Police and soldiers were patrolling the streets of the city on Friday, March 24, ahead of the arrival of 27 EU leaders at the Vatican Friday afternoon.
The EU heads, minus UK PM Theresa May, will meet on Saturday to mark the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, one of two treaties, which established the basis for the formation of the EU.
Italy has raised its security alert level to 2, the highest possible when not experiencing an active and actual terrorist attack.
Three thousand police and soldiers were originally ordered, but that number has been increased to 5,000 following the attack in London.
Also, Rome’s airspace has been closed.
Italy’s Interior Minister Marco Minniti said extra security would be deployed “in areas where there are the biggest crowds” whether because of the EU conclave or at popular tourist sites.
Several protests and rallies are expected throughout the city on Saturday.
Italy Increasing security for upcoming EU summit
By NTD Newsroom