Leaders of NATO countries have spoken firm words to China at the summit in Brussels. In a joint statement the leaders of NATO’s 30 countries say China poses a constant security challenge, seeks to undermine the world order and is developing nuclear missiles at a “worrying pace”.
China’s ambitions and behavior pose “systemic challenges” to the world order of mutual agreements and rules, the government leaders say.
Biden at top for the first time
US President Biden, who has been arguing for a firmer policy against Beijing for some time, was there for the first time. German Chancellor Merkel and French President Macron were somewhat more lenient on China. “It’s important to find the balance, because China is also a partner in many areas,” Merkel said.
Macron said NATO should be careful not to push aside other important issues such as countering terrorism and security issues surrounding Russia.
That is why the thirty heads of state and government did not go so far as to call China a rival. But they did express concerns about what they believe to be “coercive policies,” or the obscure ways in which the country is modernizing its armed forces and spreading misinformation.
In addition to talks about China, the relationship with Russia was also discussed. Concerns were expressed, among other things, about the military presence in Crimea and the country’s nuclear arsenal. We reiterate our support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova within their internationally recognized borders. the explanation.
Biden vs. Trump
The leaders were physically reunited at NATO headquarters for the first time in a year and a half. Biden expressed his “strong commitment” to NATO, Secretary General Stoltenberg said afterwards. Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, regularly spoke less positively about the collaboration.
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