Chair of the NATO Military Committee attends the 54th NATO Defense College Academic Advisory Board meeting

The NDC Academic Advisory Board (AAB) is headed by the Chair of the NATO Military Committee and advises the Commandant on ways in which to improve the academic, research and outreach activities of the College, to enhance links with NATO HQ and Allied Command Transformation, and to ensure that NDC outreach strategies align to those of the Alliance. The two-day meeting provided updates on ongoing research, engagement and digital transformation at the NATO Defense College. The AAB members also discussed the future of the NDC and its ‘Drivers of Change’.

While at the Defense College, Admiral Bauer also addressed the Generals Flag Officers and Ambassadors Course. This high-level course seeks to enhance mutual understanding of security concerns and of NATO's interests and capabilities among Generals and Flag Officers and high-ranking civilians including ambassadors from NATO, PfP, Med Dialogue, ICI, Contact Countries & Iraq.

Admiral Bauer stressed that over the past years, not only the cooperation between NATO Allies has gotten much closer but also NATO’s cooperation with Partners: “The best response to the rising levels of conflicts and growing insecurity in the world, is to stand together firmer than ever.”

In his speech Admiral Bauer underlined the importance of trust: “My personal mantra ‘Expect the unexpected’ means you don’t take anything for granted. You must constantly be on your guard. But that doesn’t mean you can’t trust anyone. On the contrary: especially in these chaotic times I am convinced that TRUST is more important than ever. The NATO Defense College plays a crucial role in bringing together military and civilian leaders from different backgrounds. This all forms part of the glue that holds our Alliance and our Partnerships together.”