Aqaba, Oct. 26 (Petra) -- Thirty-eight countries are participating in this year's Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference (SOFEX Jordan), an increase of seven to eight countries over the previous edition, according to a senior military official.

King Abdullah II Special Forces Commander Col. Hisham Huneiti announced the figures during a press conference in Aqaba on Monday, alongside Director of Military Media Brig. Gen. Mohammad Mheidat, to discuss the importance of SOFEX Jordan and the Middle East Special Operations Commanders Conference.

Both officials emphasized the events' role in strengthening international military cooperation, exchanging expertise and developing defense capabilities to address shared security challenges.

Mheidat described the commanders conference as a strategic platform for dialogue among military leaders and experts, providing opportunities to discuss common security threats and explore the latest technologies and innovations in special operations.

He said the discussions focus on military diplomacy, coordinating efforts to counter security threats, particularly terrorism, and the role of technology and defense innovation in enhancing military capabilities and modernizing defense systems to meet operational requirements.

Mheidat added that bilateral and multilateral meetings provide opportunities to strengthen cooperation among participating countries, exchange operational experience, develop training programs and explore partnerships in defense industries. Such cooperation, he noted, would enhance the ability of armed forces and security agencies to respond to evolving challenges.

On Aqaba's selection as host city, Mheidat highlighted its strategic location and logistical and tourism advantages, including its seaport, King Hussein International Airport and proximity to major tourist destinations such as Wadi Rum and Petra.

He said hosting the events reinforces Aqaba's position as a strategic logistics hub and promotes Jordan as a destination for international conferences and exhibitions, supporting tourism and the national economy.

Huneiti, meanwhile, said the increase in participating countries, companies and delegations reflects growing international interest in SOFEX Jordan and its standing as a specialized platform for special operations and defense technology.

He emphasized that Jordan's hosting of the event reflects its regional and international standing, the confidence placed in the Jordan Armed Forces and their expertise in special operations.

Huneiti also highlighted the Kingdom's role in strengthening defense partnerships and supporting regional and international security and stability.

SOFEX Jordan's activities will continue Tuesday with the exhibition's official opening, bringing together representatives of participating countries and companies specializing in special operations equipment and defense technology.

//Petra// AJ