The discussions focused on the assessment of the current situation of the international security environment in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the functioning of the Alliance. Despite the coronavirus crisis, NATO countries supported maintaining the organisation’s strong activity in the area of security, including defence and deterrence. The ministers also talked about the disinformation campaign targeting NATO member states, which is conducted mostly by Russia. It was the first meeting to bring together 30 member states of the Alliance as it was held with the participation of the Republic of North Macedonia.

NATO foreign ministers adopted a statement in which they expressed their solidarity in the face of the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (full text available here). They also discussed NATO’s operational engagement and cooperation with partners in the Africa, the Middle East, and Afghanistan region. Moreover, the ministers supported increased partnership with Georgia and Ukraine and adopted a mandate for the Reflection Group. Set up by the Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the group is to enhance the political dimension of the Alliance’s activities.

Minister Jacek Czaputowicz also drew attention to Russia’s aggressive actions against its neighbours as well as Moscow’s disinformation campaign directed against the Alliance’s unity. The chief of Polish diplomacy also voiced his support for NATO’s increased cooperation with its close partners, Ukraine and Georgia, as the cooperation is beneficial both for the Alliance and the two countries. Minister Czaputowicz also expressed his belief that the Reflection Group, whose member is Minister Anna Fotyga, will contribute to enhancing the Alliance’s unity and solidarity.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Press Office

Photo: Tymon Markowski / MFA