Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is taking part in the Meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs via video conference from December 1 to 2.

This meeting provides an opportunity for the ministers to review the report issued by the reflection group on the future of NATO and to discuss its recommendations. This report is an initial response to the reflection process on the future of NATO launched a year ago on the initiative of France and Germany.

In line with President Macrons calls for a strategic reflection within NATO, the minister welcomed the recommendations aimed at enhancing cohesion, solidarity and predictability among allies.

The minister underscored the importance of the proposals to strengthen coordination with the EU, as well as those aimed at reaffirming the values and principles that should guide relations between allies. This reflection process will continue at the next NATO summit in 2021. The minister also shared his analysis of the changes in the strategic context which have an impact on the alliances security interests. The minister reaffirmed the importance of a robust NATO defense and deterrence posture, to which France directly contributes, as well as the need to leave the possibility of dialogue with Russia in particular open, in accordance with the alliances agreed positions.

These discussions provided an opportunity for the ministers to address the regional crises and all external interference that undermines the alliances stability and unity. The ministers discussed the continued joint fight against terrorism, notably in Afghanistan and Iraq. The minister reaffirmed the importance of consultations and coordination within the relevant forums, within the framework of the Global Coalition against Daesh as well as within NATO, in order to protect our common security interests in these two countries.

The ministers will also discuss the opportunities and challenges related to Chinas emergence. This session will be attended by the EU high representative and the minister will reaffirm the importance of effective coordination between the EU and NATO on these challenges.

Lastly, the ministers will be joined by the Georgian and Ukrainian foreign ministers to discuss the security situation in the Black Sea region.

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NATO - Jean-Yves Le Drian's participation in the Meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs (1-2 Dec. 2020) - France Diplomatie