NATO Secretary General discusses global security challenges, transatlantic partnership at Brussels Forum

The Secretary General stressed the role of security in promoting economic prosperity, and the importance of transatlantic burden-sharing. He noted that many European Allies have stopped cutting their defence spending, and are stepping up their contributions to collective security, including by leading NATO’s high-readiness Spearhead Force. He further welcomed the U.S. European Reassurance Initiative as a clear demonstration of the United States’ continued commitment to European security.

Outlining NATO’s response to Russia’s aggressive actions in Crimea and eastern Ukraine, Mr. Stoltenberg noted that the Alliance is strengthening its collective defence, and increasing both its presence in the east and its ability to rapidly reinforce. He stressed that, two years after Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea, it is important that economic sanctions continue. The Secretary General added that being firm in defending Allies, and keeping channels of political dialogue open must go hand-in-hand. “There is no contradiction between strong defence and political dialogue,” said Mr. Stoltenberg.

The Secretary General also highlighted the importance of building the defence capabilities of partners in order to make them stronger and more able to resist the advances of terrorist groups, such as ISIL. He noted that NATO is working with Iraq, Jordan, Tunisia and others to help them build their ability to defend themselves.

Organised by the German Marshall Fund of the United States, the Brussels Forum brings together political, economic and intellectual leaders from Europe and America to discuss key challenges facing the Euro-Atlantic area.