LOC16:19
13:19 GMT
(with photos)
BRUSSELS, Oct 22 (KUNA) -- Defence ministers of the 28-member NATO began
Tuesday a two-day meeting which will focus on Afghanistan, cyber defence and
agenda for next years Alliance summit.
"We will take our agenda forward as we prepare for next years NATO summit
in the United Kingdom. We will discuss our approach to our training and
exercises, to build on the lessons we have learnt in two decades of
operations, as Allies and with partners," NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh
Rasmussen told reporters ahead of the meeting.
"We will discuss cyber defence - our constant efforts to protect our own
networks, and how the Alliance should address this growing threat through an
enhanced cyber policy and cyber defence," he said.
On Wednesday, NATO defence ministers will meet with their Russian
counteprart in the NATO-Russia Council.
"This will be a good opportunity to take a broad look at our practical
cooperation, which is greater than ever. We are making significant steps in
areas such as counter-terrorism and support for the Afghan forces," said the
NATO chief.
"This is also a good opportunity to discuss areas where we have not reached
agreement such as missile defence. NATO has invited Russia to cooperate in
this field, and that offer stands," he noted.
Also tomorrow the NATO ministers will meet with Afghan Defence Minister
Mohammadi and other partners in ISAF to discuss progress in Afghanistan.
"Afghan forces are now in the lead, showing courage, confidence and
increasing capability. And we will advance planning for a post-2014 mission to
train, advise and assist the Afghan Security Forces as part of our enduring
partnership," said Rasmussen.
"Let me add one last remark on Libya. I am satisfied that we have now
agreed to respond positively to the Libyan governments request for advice on
defence institution building. We will set up a small advisory team. And this
will be part of, and closely coordinated with the overall efforts of the
international community," he added. (end)
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KUNA 221619 Oct 13NNNN