Drawing attention to the deepening strategic partnership of Russia and China, Stoltenberg said, “China’s growing assertiveness and coercive policies have consequences for the security of our Allies and our partners. China is significantly developing its military forces, including nuclear weapons, to bully its neighbors and threaten Taiwan.”
COOPERATION WITH INDO-PACIFIC PARTNERS WILL ACCELERATE
Stating that China invests heavily in critical infrastructure, including Allied countries, monitors and controls its own citizens with advanced technology, and spreads Russian lies and disinformation, NATO Secretary General said, “China is not our enemy. But we must be clear on the serious challenges it represents. And we must continue to engage with our partners to maintain a rules-based international order. A global system based on norms and values rather than brute violence. Therefore, NATO will accelerate cooperation with our Indo-Pacific partners, including cyber defense, new technologies, maritime security, climate change and combating disinformation. Because these global challenges require global solutions.”
A SUPPORT PACKAGE TO UKRAINE
Stoltenberg continued his statements as follows;
“Yesterday, the Allies approved an enhanced support package that helps equip and strengthen Ukraine over the long term. And we agreed to increase political and practical support for other partners, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova, at risk of Russian aggression. We will help them develop their abilities and strengthen their stamina.”
DEFENSE PACKAGE TO MARITANIA
“Tonight the Allied Foreign Ministers will meet with Jordan and Mauritania. We reaffirm our determination to continue to respond to challenges from the south, including in the Sahel. The Allies agreed for the first time today on a defense capacity building package for Mauritania. We will help them deal with security issues such as border security, irregular migration and terrorism. Based on Mauritania’s requests, we will focus our support on a number of key areas, including special operations, maritime security and intelligence.”
(DHA)