Kerry, Stoltenberg discuss implications of Brexit

BRUSSELS, June 27 (KUNA) -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Monday held talks with US Secretary of State John Kerry on next week's NATO Warsaw Summit, and the implications of the UK's vote on membership in the EU.
According to a NATO statement, they welcomed the British government's restatement of its steadfast commitment to the Alliance. They agreed that the EU remains a vital pillar for security cooperation in Europe.
Stoltenberg said that "NATO has become even more important as a platform for cooperation between Europe and North America, but also defence and security cooperation between European NATO Allies. Cooperation between NATO and the EU has always been important, but it's even more important now after the decision of the United Kingdom." At the Warsaw Summit on July 8-9, NATO leaders will take important decisions to enhance collective defence and deterrence, including an enhanced military presence in the east of the Alliance.
They will also step up efforts to project stability beyond NATO's borders, working hand-in-hand with partners to the south and to the east Leaders will also take practical cooperation with the EU to the next level in maritime security and countering hybrid threats, added the statement. (end) nk.hb