Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Welcomes Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to Vilnius Summit

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg speaks prior to a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during a NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, Tuesday, July 11, 2023. NATO's summit began Tuesday with fresh momentum after Turkey withdrew its objections to Sweden joining the alliance, a step toward the unity that Western leaders have been eager to demonstrate in the face of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis)

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed his warm welcome to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as he attended the Vilnius Summit on Tuesday. Stoltenberg praised Australia as a deeply valued NATO partner, emphasizing the close connection between security in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

Stoltenberg specifically thanked Prime Minister Albanese for Australia’s significant military and economic support to Ukraine. This support includes training for Ukrainian forces and the provision of armoured vehicles, demonstrating Australia’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense.

Recognizing the evolving nature of security threats, Stoltenberg also applauded NATO and Australia’s efforts to deepen their partnership in various areas. Both parties are actively engaging in close cooperation in cyber defense, new technologies, and countering hybrid threats.

According to a report by NATO, this enhanced collaboration underscores the commitment of NATO and Australia to jointly address emerging security challenges in the modern era. The cyber arena, rapidly advancing technologies, and hybrid threats require cohesive global efforts, and NATO and Australia are at the forefront of this cooperation.

Prime Minister Albanese expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and acknowledged the significance of the NATO-Australia partnership. He stressed the importance of collective action in addressing shared security concerns, highlighting the ongoing commitment of Australia to global peace and stability.

The Vilnius Summit serves as a platform for NATO member states and partner countries to discuss and strengthen their collaboration on pressing security issues. The participation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese affirms the deepening ties between NATO and Australia and their shared commitment to promoting peace and security worldwide.

In summary, the Vilnius Summit marks an important milestone in the NATO-Australia partnership. The commendation of Australia’s support to Ukraine, along with the expansion of cooperation in cyber, new technologies, and countering hybrid threats, further solidifies the bond between NATO and Australia. Together, they are actively working towards addressing emerging security challenges and creating a safer world for all.