NATO and OSCE discuss modernising tools of military transparency
Measures to enhance transparency on military activities, the conflict in Ukraine and closer institutional links topped the agenda in talks between NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and Gernot Erler, the Special Representative of Germany for the OSCE Chairmanship at NATO headquarters on Wednesday (27 January 2016).
“I appreciate the efforts of Germany’s OSCE Chairmanship to focus on renewing dialogue and strengthening the OSCE’s instruments and discussion forums,” the Secretary General said, describing the OSCE as a “key player in many areas of particular interest to the Alliance.”
Mr Stoltenberg stressed the need for stronger measures to create more transparency on military activities in Europe in view of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as its frequent snap exercises. He welcomed the efforts within the OSCE to further strengthen mechanisms for transparency in order to avoid accidents and incidents. He stressed that Allies actively support OSCE efforts to update the regime of inspections and reporting of military exercises, including short-notice ones. The Secretary General and the Special Representative discussed opportunities to increase information sharing between the two organisations.
The Secretary General thanked the OSCE for its crucial role in monitoring the situation on the ground in Eastern Ukraine, and in the efforts to facilitate a diplomatic solution. He stressed that the full implementation of the Minsk agreements offers the best chance for peace in Ukraine.
Special Representative Erler and OSCE Secretary General Ambassador Lamberto Zannier separately addressed the Ambassadors of the North Atlantic Council about OSCE activities and the priorities of the German chairmanship.