Remarks

by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the dedication of the 9/11 and Article 5 Memorial

  • 25 May. 2017 -
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  • Last updated: 25 May. 2017 18:55

(As delivered)

NATO’s greatest strength is the enduring bond between North America and Europe.

We saw the strength of that bond after the 9/11 attacks against the United States. And President Trump, those attacks struck at the heart of your own home town New York.

And for the first time, NATO invoked our collective defence clause, Article 5.

One for all, and all for one. Hundreds of thousands of European and Canadian soldiers have served shoulder-to-shoulder with US troops in Afghanistan for over a decade. To help ensure it never again becomes a safe haven for international terrorists. It is our solidarity that keeps our nations safe. And when our open and free societies come under attack, we stand up for our values and our way of life. That is why a strong NATO is good for Europe, and good for North America. The 9/11 and Article 5 Memorial will be a daily reminder of our vital bond. And, today, we will commit to do more in our common struggle against terrorism.

So Mister President, it’s a great honour to have you here and a great honour to give you the floor.