Meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs

9 February 2017

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Meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs

For two days, Brussels hosted the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs (Wednesday, December 7, 2016). They have made progress in a number of key topics, including cooperation with the European Union. Allies approved a set of 40 measures for the advancement of the two organizations mutual work: NATO and EU, including the fight against hybrid threats, cyber defense, and make their common neighborhood more stable and secure. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called the agreement “a milestone in our relations” adding that “no organization has the full range of tools to address new challenges alone, but working together we are a powerful force forever. ” The ministers also took note of the Alliance’s efforts to project stability, helping to build a strong institution in the partner countries, training of local forces and the fight against terrorism. Ministers reviewed the progress on NATO efforts to support the fight against ISIL Coalition, training Iraqi officers and maritime operations in the Mediterranean Sea. The ministers also discussed the situation in the Western Balkans and the Alliance’s commitment to its partners in the region.
At a NATO-Ukraine meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin, and NATO Secretary General stressed the “support” for Ukraine. The Secretary General warned that serious security problems are hampering the progress towards a political settlement of the conflict. Mr. Stoltenberg also stressed the commitment of NATO to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and the country’s reform efforts.
Finally, at a meeting attended by Afghan Minister of Foreign Affairs Salahuddin Rabbani, the ministers discussed NATO’s mission to train, to assist and strengthen Afghan security forces, and reaffirmed their support for the country, while the Afghan government said that further reforms will continue.