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Solidarity is still the heart of NATO

Fri, 03.04.2009
Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Barack Obama shake hands with the crowd
Agrandissement
Photo: REGIERUNGonline / Kugler
A warm welcome in Baden-Baden
The shared commitment of all NATO member states to protect their own security and that of other nations remains the duty of NATO, said Chancellor Angela Merkel shortly before the NATO anniversary summit began in Baden-Baden. Today, however, NATO must take on new tasks too.
"This anniversary gives us the opportunity to redefine the foundations of our alliance,” stated Angela Merkel clearly after a meeting with US President Barack Obama. The two heads of government spoke out in favour of reforming NATO.
 

Afghanistan – a test for NATO

 
Both Angela Merkel and Barack Obama see Afghanistan as a test for NATO. The Chancellor praised the new approach of the USA, which is very much in line with Germany’s. For Germany, "networked security is a fundamental principle,” she declared. This involves dovetailing military and civilian reconstruction and training for the police force. Equally important, however, is capacity development for the Afghans to enable them to help themselves. "That is our aim,” underscored the Chancellor.
 
Barack Obama added, "We must coordinate our activities”. All NATO member states must provide appropriate inputs. "I am confident that Germany, as a leading European nation, will do its bit,” he said.