MADRID, June 30 (KUNA) -- Leaders of the North Atlantic Alliance (NATO) adopted a new strategic concept painting a roadmap for the upcoming decade, as it dubs Russia a direct threat and China a challenge to the alliance's values and interests.
In the Madrid Summit Declaration, Russia, once deemed "strategic ally" in the 2010 document, is now described as "the most significant and direct threat to Allies' security." Additionally and for the first time, China is included in the alliance's strategic concept as the alliance views its ambitions and coercive policies as a challenge to its values, security and interests.
China's cyber, space, hybrid, other asymmetric threats, and the malicious use of emerging and disruptive technologies, as well as its elusive strategies and intentions threaten undermines the security of the alliance, the document stressed.
It also shed light on the deepening of strategic partnership between Russia and China, and their attempts to bolster one another, stating that this undermines international order.
NATO's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated Wednesday "China is not our adversary," adding, "but we must be clear-eyed about the serious challenges it represents".
Stoltenberg commented that NATO is agreeing on such a plan for the first time since the Cold War, because the European continent is undergoing the worst circumstances since the Second World War.
On another note, the document reaffirmed the enduring transatlantic bond between the alliance's nations, adding that it is defensive alliance and is the essential forum for security consultations and decisions among allies and will do so in line with the 360-degree approach, across the land, air, maritime, cyber, and space domains.
On issue of cybersecurity, the military alliance elucidated that it will significantly strengthen cyber defenses through enhancing civil-military cooperation, expanding partnership with industry, and exercising a virtual rapid response cyber capability to respond to significant malicious cyber activities.
The western bloc's leaders agreed to increase military might on its eastern borders, increasing forces and boosting readiness.
The document further asserted that it would stand in defense of NATO lands' territorial integrity and sovereignty, reassuring Spain against any aggression exerted on Ceuta and Melilla.
The alliance directed yesterday an official invite to Finland and Sweden, following Turkiye's withdrawal of objection.
Later today, the summit will conclude its works amidst unprecedented security presence, some 10,000 security personnel, Anti-Aircraft Artillery and NATO fighter jets protecting its air space. (end) hnd.aai