On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of NATO establishment, the most enduring and strongest defence alliance in world history, allow me to emphasise not only its historical significance but also its proven necessity in the international security environment, particularly in times when crises tend to become the norm.
Primarily, the alliance's purpose is to defend fundamental values such as territorial integrity, respect for International Law and the protection of human dignity. And at a crucial juncture, Alliance member states have demonstrated unity and commitment in condemning violations of these values, with Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine serving as a prime example. Apart from the realm of armed conflicts, the Alliance plays an active role in addressing challenges to international and regional security posed by asymmetric and hybrid threats.
To this end, NATO also enhances its deterrent capabilities in areas such as cybersecurity and the fight against disinformation and fake news. Greece made a significant strategic choice regarding its Western orientation on February 18, 1952, the date of its accession to NATO. This choice was solidified by its membership in the European Union.
We remain firmly committed to international multilateralism and the defence of international peace and security. Moreover, we wish to actively contribute to global stability by constantly participating in peacekeeping missions under the UN auspices as well as by developing relations of cooperation and mutual respect with countries beyond Europe, including those in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Furthermore, we support the strengthening of transatlantic security and defence ties, alongside the development of an autonomous and responsible European defence identity.
The recent accession of Sweden to the Alliance as the 32nd member, which Greece supported from the very first moment, demonstrates that the Alliance, seventy-five years later, remains a pole of attraction and pillar of security for Europe and the world.
March 24, 2024
