12 Sep 2001

NATO reaffirms Treaty commitments in dealing with terrorist attacks against the US "If it is determined that this attack was directed from abroad against the United States, it shall be regarded as an action covered by Article 5 of the Washington Treaty," stated NATO Secretary General, Lord Robertson, after a meeting of the North Atlantic Council on the evening of 12 September. Article 5 of the Washington Treaty stipulates that an armed attack against one or several members shall be considered as an attack against all. Lord Robertson will now officially inform the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, that the North Atlantic Council has agreed this statement. During a press conference, Lord Robertson reaffirmed that NATO allies will take such actions as deemed necessary, including the use of force, adding that members shall respond commensurate with their judgement and resources. Earlier in the day, Lord Robertson, had consulted with EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, and Ambassadors from partner countries had joined NATO allies, within the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council, to express their deepest sympathy to the American people. They condemned yesterday's terrorist attacks and made a pledge "to undertake all efforts to combat the scourge of terrorism." They added: "We stand united in our belief that the ideals of partnership and co-operation will prevail." Additional information: Special web module on NATO and the Scourge of Terrorism NATO Press Release (2001)124: Statement by the North Atlantic Council - 12 September 2001