Transatlantic security at ‘turning point’: Nato chief
Brussels, Jul 4 (EFE).- Transatlantic security is at a “turning point” and Nato is now stronger and more agile, the Alliance’s secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday.
“You join us at a turning point for transatlantic security, marked by rising strategic competition and the return of brutal war in Europe,” Stoltenberg said at the Allied Command Operations change of command ceremony in which two military leaders were promoted to Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), one of Nato’s highest military posts.
“This is one of the most important military jobs in the world, at one of the most pivotal times for our security,” he added.
The Nato chief said that the “transformative decisions” taken last week at a summit in Madrid had made the alliance “stronger and more agile”.
“Now and for the future, because if we want peace, we must prepare for war,” he said.
Stoltenberg added that the new Nato deterrence and defense strategy had allowed to reinforce the eastern flank “within hours” of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Finally, he said Nato was preparing to welcome Finland and Sweden to the alliance after Turkey last week lifted a veto on their accession.
“Two new Nato Allies with formidable military forces and capabilities,” the Nato chief said. EFE
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