18 December 2001

NATO, Russia Reiterate United Stand in Face of Terrorism

The NATO-Russia Permanent Joint Council met December 18 in Brussels at the level of defense ministers. Discussion focused on the Balkans, the new council that will bring the 19 NATO member states together with Russia for joint deliberation and action, and cooperation against terrorism, according to the following NATO press release:

The NATO-Russia Permanent Joint Council (PJC) met at the level of Defence Ministers on Tuesday, 18 December 2001 in Brussels. Ministers fully endorsed the decision of Foreign Ministers on 7 December to give new impetus and substance to the partnership between NATO Allies and Russia, with the goal of creating a new council bringing together NATO member states and Russia to identify and pursue opportunities for joint action at 20. Ministers committed themselves to enhance their partnership in the security and military field.

Ministers agreed that they are ready to pursue their cooperative efforts in combating terrorism following the terrorist attacks against the United States on 11 September and other terrorist attacks, making appropriate use of defence and military tools properly coordinated with civilian instruments. Allies and Russia stand united in face of this common threat and fully support UN Security Council resolutions 1368 and 1373. They commit themselves to enhance their ability to work together in areas of common interest and to stand up to new risks and threats to their security. Ministers agreed to the holding of a NATO-Russia conference on the military role in combating terrorism in February 2002. They recognised the importance of defence reform as a key instrument to ensure adequate military capabilities.

Ministers reviewed the situation in the Balkans and recalled the importance of their operational cooperation in fostering regional stability and security. They reaffirmed that their forces deployed in the region continue to make an essential contribution. They welcomed the significant progress in their cooperation on search and rescue at sea and noted the Work Programme for 2002, as well as a general Work Plan agreed by Military Representatives of the Permanent Joint Council. Ministers also welcomed the Exchange of Letters to establish the Military Liaison Mission in Moscow.