Madrid, Spain 4 June 2003

Remarks by Ms Kristiina Ojuland Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia at the Meeting of the EAPC Mr.Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Colleagues, The title of this panel does not give much possibility to begin on a positive note. The threats to security that the international community is facing today, fortunately distant for ones but shockingly tangible for others, are grave and of growing concern to all of us. We are all subjects to the same uncertainties and Disks, no single country, member of however elitist club can fight terrorism alone and build a safe harbour for itself only. Combating terrorism in its entire spectrum requires the deepest possible cooperation and broadest possible coalition. All of us - NATO members and Partners - form the world's largest and most effective permanent coalition, as Lord Robertson has so eloquently put it. The Action Plan that was endorsed in Prague provides mechanisms for Partners to contribute to and support NATO in the fight against terrorism. Fight against terrorism necessitates that there be a thorough exchange of information, elimination of financial roots and resources of terrorism and weakening of the terrorists' support base by exposing their true nature and goals, especially in circles, which may produce new recruits for terrorism. Unfortunately we are to recognise that terrorism as well as organised crime cannot be totally eradicated - they can only be constrained. Therefore we all must be prepared for a long term coordinated efforts, which are essential for achieving our common goal. This means that any differences we may have and any duplicating of efforts, which may occur, would be the grist for terrorists' mill. Dear colleagues, However sophisticated plans we will tailor and however smart weaponry we will acquire - without political willpower and close cooperation between all members of the alliance we will not succeed in our mission. The alliance is the driving force of the EAPC and without the continuous commitment of the alliance EAPC will just be a hollow structure. The consensus in NATO does not mean automatically consensus at the EAPC. But strong NATO, speaking with one voice is a generator of unity for the EAPC and an example of solidarity in many other international and European organisations. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.