Chairman of NATO Military Committee Stresses Importance of Addressing Root Causes of Terrorism at Halifax Forum

Speaking in a panel together with other international personalities on the topic of confronting rule-breakers in the international security system, the Chairman advocated continued rules-based approach: “Because if we are not consistent in protecting the rules and principles, then it will be very difficult for us to ask anybody else to stick to the rules.”

In response to a question on lessons learned from Afghanistan to be applied in Syria and in the fight against ISIL, General Pavel said he saw the need for greater cooperation between institutions and other actors, as “military tools are not enough to resolve complex crises.” Furthermore, the Chairman advocated “the use of as many tools in a comprehensive manner as possible” in addressing not only the symptoms, but primarily the root causes of terrorism, including cutting the flow of money as well as manpower and equipment reinforcement. This should be done not only in Syria, but also in other areas where ISIL has affiliates, such as North Africa and the Sahel, said General Pavel.

The Halifax Forum 2015 brought together over 300 participants from 60 countries. Since its establishment in 2009, HISF has focused on increasing dialogue and frank debate among high level representatives from the fields of government, military, civil society and academia.

While in Canada, General Pavel travelled to Ottawa and met with General Jonathan Holbert Vance, the Chief of the Canadian Defence Staff, and other representatives of Canadian Government and Armed Forces. Discussions centred on Canada’s continued commitment to NATO’s operations and missions and current security challenges. General Pavel also paid his respects to Canadian troops by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial.