Ian Honnery, chief executive of Land Forces 2020 organiser AMDA, has said his organisation is dedicated to running the event as planned.
"I believe it is now more important than ever to sustain the relationships which underpin our industry and to remember that this season of adversity will in time give way to recovery, for which we need to be ready,” Honnery said in a statement. “That is why I write now to assure you of our organisation’s dedication to delivering Land Forces 2020.”
Whilst AMDA will continue to follow public health guidelines, these have not yet impacted its ability to deliver the exposition as planned.
“Although Land Forces 2020 is still some six months away, we are closely monitoring developments in relation to the COVID-19 Coronavirus,” Honnery said. “Like all responsible organisations, we will continue to be guided by advice from public health authorities over that period and will comply with directions from the Australian and Queensland Governments. The preservation of public health will always be our paramount commitment.
“Recognising the challenges which the world faces as a result of COVID-19, our dedication continues undiminished to deliver Land Forces 2020 in September, as we believe industry will need a strong platform for interaction as a springboard to recovery.
“With six months to run, preparations are well advanced for Land Forces 2020 to achieve this outcome.”
Honnery indicated that the Queensland Government and Army remain committed to the event.
“Along with our principal supporters, the Queensland Government and the Australian Army, we remain focused on presenting Land Forces 2020 as a premium international platform for engagement between industry, defence, government and academia,” Honnery said. “This is our resolute mission.”