The Chairman of the NATO Military Committee commends Japan for long-term Partnership

During his visit to Japan, the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach met with the Japanese Vice Minister of Defence Kenji Harada, the Chief of Defence, General Yamazaki and the Commandants of the Joint Staff College, Lieutenant General Kiyoda, Lieutenant General Iwaya, Vice Admiral Inui and Lieutenant General Nagashima.

The Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach started his day by addressing the students of the Joint Staff College in Tokyo. After a short introduction on the NATO Military Committee and his role as its chairman, Air Chief Marshal Peach explained how NATO has evolved over the last 70 years to become more mature, multinational and multilateral. “Since 1949, there have been many challenges – from the Cold War, to the Balkan Wars, to the 9/11 attacks and our involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq. The nature of conflict has evolved and NATO has adapted in response. We have grown to incorporate new members and we have expanded our network of partners. NATO is a security provider and the world still needs us”, added the Chairman.

NATO and Japan have been partners since the early 1990s. “NATO and Japan share common values and an innate desire to uphold and protect peace and security in our own neighbourhoods and across the world. Partners, like Japan, have made and continue to make substantial contributions to Alliance operations, missions, and practical cooperation activities”, stressed the Chairman in his meeting with the Japanese Chief of Defence General Yamazaki.

In his meeting with the Vice Minister of Defence Kenji Harada, Air Chief Marshal highlighted the importance of continued cooperation: “Practical cooperation is being developed in a wide range of areas, including cyber defence, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, defence science and technology, and women, peace and security. The cooperation with Japan is mutually beneficial and enriches our common experience”.

Before heading to Japan, the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart attended the Shangri-La Dialogue Conference in Singapore. The event is not only an opportunity to participate in meaningful debates on cooperative security but is also forum for bilateral dialogue with NATO Partners.