PARC: NATO-accredited training at NIRC strengthens regional public affairs capabilities

KUWAIT, Feb 12 (KUNA) - Head of the Public Affairs Regional Centre (PARC), Lieutenant Colonel Sasho Gelevski, affirmed that NATO-accredited training delivered at the NATO-ICI Regional Centre (NIRC) in Kuwait reflects the Alliance's unwavering commitment to strengthening strategic communication and public affairs capabilities among partner countries.
Gelevski, who led a Mobile Training Team from PARC, told KUNA after concluding a public relations course that conducting the training at NIRC for the second consecutive year demonstrates NATO's dedication to building sustainable institutional capacity across the region.
He noted that the program is uniquely designed to ensure that every topic addressed throughout the course can be directly applied to the daily responsibilities of Public Affairs Officers (PAOs).
Beyond theoretical lectures, participants engage in intensive practical exercises that test their ability to utilize communication tools and methods in realistic scenarios.
"At NATO, we strive to achieve excellence by being open, transparent and credible with our public," he said, emphasizing that these values are shared with partner countries, including members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). He added that enhancing partners' capabilities contributes to a more secure and prosperous world.
Addressing the growing challenges posed by disinformation and artificial intelligence, Gelevski stressed that no country is immune to information threats. He said PARC integrates disinformation awareness into its Basic Public Affairs Course, introducing participants to its nature, typologies and impact.
Through real-world examples and NATO definitions, the course helps structure the essential capabilities nations must develop to mitigate the negative effects of harmful information. He underlined that equipping PAOs with practical tools strengthens their daily professional performance in confronting emerging information threats.
On regional communication challenges, Gelevski observed that institutions in the region face pressures similar to those worldwide, including shortages of highly trained public affairs personnel and limited staffing capacity. He described public affairs as one of the most demanding professional fields, often requiring work under sustained pressure while maintaining credibility and accuracy.
"The challenge is not communication itself, but ensuring sufficient capacities and capabilities to manage and sustain an effective communication process," he said, noting that citizens have the right to be informed in a timely and truthful manner.
He also highlighted Kuwait's important role in hosting NIRC, describing the training programs as a two-way exchange of knowledge and experience. He expressed appreciation for Kuwait's openness and hospitality, emphasizing that professional networking among participants from Kuwait and other GCC countries is essential for long-term stability and cooperation.
Gelevski praised the professionalism of the NIRC team and their understanding of the value of cooperation between NATO and regional partners, stressing that shared values naturally lead to stronger collaboration, particularly in the field of public affairs.
Regarding the course's expected impact, he expressed confidence that participants would apply the knowledge gained during the two-week program in their respective institutions. The curriculum, he explained, balances foundational public affairs principles with audience-tailored practical scenarios designed to test and enhance real-world performance.
He added that while the course primarily prepares future PAOs, its principles are applicable across a broad spectrum of institutional roles, particularly for those interacting with public affairs professionals and journalists.
Lieutenant Colonel Gelevski reaffirmed PARC's continued commitment to supporting partner countries in strengthening strategic communication capabilities in line with NATO standards. (end) yt.dss