Stoltenberg, Macron discuss global security, Ukraine

21.05.2021 14:59

Ukrinform

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has held a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris during which both parties discussed preparations for the next NATO summit in June this year and international security and stability problems, including the situation in Ukraine and Russia's aggressive behavior.

According to Ukrinform, the text of Stoltenberg's statement following his talks with Macron has been published on the NATO website.

"We also discussed the situation in Ukraine. Russia still has troops in and around Ukraine and more troops now than before the recent escalation. So we need a peaceful resolution. And I commend France's active role in the Normandy format," Stoltenberg said.

He stressed that NATO remains vigilant, because this is part of a disturbing pattern of Russian aggressive actions. At the same time, according to Stoltenberg, NATO remains committed to its dual-track approach of defense and dialogue with Russia.

One of the main topics discussed at the meeting between Stoltenberg and Macron was preparations for the NATO summit to be held in Brussels on June 14 this year. During the meeting, the allies will discuss ways to further strengthen ties between Europe and North America, as well as the areas of the Alliance's development under the NATO 2030 initiative.

Both parties also discussed current NATO operations, including in Iraq, as well as the situation in Afghanistan.