I expect the 2022 Concept will refer to Russia as the most significant and direct threat to our security. Such a statement made the NATO Secretary General.

“First, strengthening our defences. We will do more to ensure we can defend every inch of Allied territory. At all times and against any threat. We will adapt the NATO force structure. With more forces at high readiness. We will also have more NATO forward deployed combat formations, to strengthen battlegroups in the East up to brigade level. And more pre-positioned equipment and weapon stockpiles.

Second, we will agree a new Strategic Concept for NATO. To guide NATO in a radically changed security environment. I expect the 2022 Concept will refer to Russia as the most significant and direct threat to our security. It will address a lot of other challenges that are hardly mentioned in the current strategic concept. Including climate change, cyber, hybrid, and space. And, for the first time, we will address China and the challenges it poses to our interests, security and values.

In this context, I welcome that the leaders of our Asia-Pacific partners – Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea – will take part in our Summit for the first time. This brings me to my third point – NATO partnerships. We will strengthen our support to Ukraine and other partners at risk.

At the summit, we will agree a new comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine. It is composed of concrete projects. To assist in the short term. Including with anti-drone equipment, secure communications and fuel. But importantly, we will also look at the longer-term. Including by assisting Ukraine to transition from Soviet-era military equipment to modern NATO equipment. Boosting interoperability. And further strengthening its defence and security institutions.

We will also continue to do more for other partners vulnerable to Russian threats and interference. Including Georgia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. By stepping up more political and practical support for these partners. To help strengthen their resilience. And prevent any future aggression”, - said Jens Stoltenberg.