Australian Foreign Minister addresses the North Atlantic Council
The Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd visited NATO Headquarters on 20 January, met with Deputy Secretary General Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero and addressed the North Atlantic Council for an exchange of views on the new strategic enviroment. He also discussed with Allies how to further deepen the partnership between the Alliance and Australia.
“The partnership between Australia and the Alliance is based on our shared principles, values, and a common vision of how international relations can promote peace and stability”, the Deputy Secretary General said. “Not surprising, it has developed into Australia becoming one of NATO’s foremost partners across the globe. There has been a constant upgrade in our political consultations and practical cooperation”.
Allies thanked Foreign Minister Rudd for Australia’s sustained commitment to the Alliance’s ISAF operation in Afghanistan as the largest non-NATO troop contributor.