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HomeMEDIA RESOURCES20113 February 2011 - NATO PA President calls for renewed NATO focus to implement New Strategic Concept

3 February 2011 - NATO PA PRESIDENT CALLS FOR RENEWED NATO FOCUS TO IMPLEMENT NEW STRATEGIC CONCEPT

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In a speech on February 2 at a conference organized by the National Defence Committee of the parliament of Portugal, Dr. Karl A. Lamers, President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, called for concrete action on NATO’s post-summit agenda. He stressed the centrality of cyber security and underlined the importance of ensuring that the Alliance coordinates policy in this area. He also noted that the NATO PA has a role to play in cyber security by facilitating discussion on this issue between parliamentarians that can lead to policy coordination between member states.

Dr. Lamers also stressed the need to make human rights a part of the NATO agenda.  “This is a values-based Alliance and our strength comes from our common values.   We should never compromise on that which makes us strong.”  He acknowledged that this might cause some friction in the relationship with Russia, but he strongly supported Secretary General Rassmussen’s call for closer cooperation with Russia.  “We must build a practical and pragmatic relationship with Russia, but we should not shy away from criticism of the Russian government when it is warranted” said Dr. Lamers.

The conference also featured speeches by the Chief of General Staff of the Portuguese armed forces, General Valenca Pinto, and SACEUR Admiral James G. Stavridis.  In attendance were senior members of the Portuguese armed forces, members of parliament and members of the diplomatic community.

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