On Saturday 26 October 2013, the tenth NATO Regional Cooperation Course (NRCC 10), led by Middle East Faculty Head Col Giuseppe MORABITO (ITA A), began its Field Study. The group’s first stop was Amman, Jordan, where an extensive programme of visits had been organized.
In Amman, the delegation visited the Royal Scientific Society, where participants had the honour to be welcomed personally by H.R.H. Prince El-Hassan bin Talal. They were then received at the Royal Jordanian National Defence College, beginning their visit to the College with a briefing on its mission, history and activities, followed by a most interesting Q&A session. A very full day was then brought to a close with a dinner in honour of the NRCC group, hosted by the Jordanian Air Force.
Monday 28 October was partly dedicated to a cultural tour of the ancient city of Petra, followed by a meeting with the Minister for Media Affairs and Government Spokesman, H.E. Dr Mohammad Al Momani.
Leaving Jordan on Tuesday 29 October, the NRCC delegation travelled to Belgium for the conclusion of the Field Study: visits to NATO Headquarters and SHAPE are scheduled, after which the group will return to Rome.
The NATO Defense College values Field Studies as an essential part of a comprehensive curriculum, to provide and enhance relevant and up-to-date knowledge about NATO and regional issues. Since the initial NRCC in 2009, participants have been on numerous Field Studies. This is, however, the first time that a country in the Middle East and North Africa region has been on the itinerary.
This Field Study undoubtedly makes an important contribution to the main Course objectives – linking issues of concern to MD and ICI nations as well as to NATO, and enhancing mutual understanding and professional contacts among participants.
NDC Pubic Affairs Office
(Prepared by Ms Giulia Amparo Bruni Roccia)
Collège de Défense de l'OTAN