German Foreign Minister visits NATO Headquarters
On 3 November 2009, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany, Guido Westerwelle, met with Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen at NATO Headquarters. They discussed efforts in Afghanistan, NATO relations with Russia and progress on the development of NATO’s new Strategic Concept.
In speaking to the press after their meeting, the Secretary General said that they agreed on the need to strengthen efforts to hand over responsibility to the Afghan people when they are ready. He also stressed how important it is that President Hamid Karzai live up to his commitments and establish a strong and inclusive government.
Minister Westerwelle underlined the need to focus on civil reconstruction, but that that depends on the provision of security to the Afghan people. President Karzai, he said, should strive to build bridges and unite the varied interests within the country.
On the NATO-Russia relationship, Secretary General Rasmussen underlined the need for improved relations while sticking to NATO’s core principles.
Mr Westerwelle noted the progress made in developing the Alliance’s new Strategic Concept, which will define “the NATO of the 21st Century”. NATO is at a crossroads, he said, and needs to be prepared for the future.
The text of the Minister’s and Secretary General’s statements will be made available on the NATO website.