MayDefence Minister participates at the NATO Summit in Chicago
21 May 2012
On 20-21 May was held in Chicago, USA, the 25th summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Albania was represented at this meeting with a delegation led by Prime Minister of Albania, Mr. Sali Berisha and with the participation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Edmond Haxhinasto and Defence Minister, Mr. Arben Imami.
The Chicago Summit aimed at balancing the achievement of Lisbon Summit, focusing particularly on the development of Alliance’s joint critical capabilities. The summit greeted the consensus on Defence and Deterrence Capabilities Review, Missile Defence, Surveillance of Common Space and Interim Missile Defence Capabilities.
In the focus of the summit proceedings was the discussion about the defence package, which was adopted by state leaders paving the way for implementation of the Alliance’s vision of NATO Forces 2012.
The proceedings also focused on the necessity of implementing NATO’s defence and planning policies and further development of “Smart Defence” projects, as a necessity to balance financial resources for the capabilities development.
It was also discussed the necessity of training and Armed Forces’ joint exercises, their common certification and specialization on particular and priority functions.
Another important point was the Alliance’s vision on the reconstruction of Afghanistan, NATO’s role in Afghanistan after 2014. At the discussion were also included NATO’s partner countries in Afghanistan, as well as Afghan President, Mr. Hamid Karzai.
All the participants supported the initiative for a strategic partnership between NATO and Afghanistan, and in this context, the long-term commitment of the Alliance and partners in Afghanistan, with an emphasis on rebuilding the country, economic development and protection of human rights.
The summit dedicated a special session to the NATO’s partner countries, part of the Istanbul Initiative and Mediterranean Dialogue, stressing the necessity of increasing the areas of operation with partners in the framework of cooperation for security. Leaders of NATO member countries reaffirmed support for the open-door policy.
