NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of adapting the alliance to long-term instability in the world. During his speech at the NATO industrial forum, Stoltenberg noted that after the end of the current conflict, the world will not return to the previous state. Ahead of us is a more aggressive Russia, an active China and growing instability.
Since the annexation of Crimea and Russia's invasion of eastern Ukraine in 2014, NATO allies have taken a number of steps to strengthen their collective defenses, in what is considered the alliance's largest buildup since the Cold War.
Over the past 9 years, NATO member states in Europe and Canada have increased their military spending. In 2023, the alliance's defense budget increased by a record 8.3% compared to the previous year.
In addition, a new defense production plan was adopted at the summit, which will make it possible to meet the needs of the armed forces more efficiently. However, it is important to avoid unacceptable increases in the prices of military equipment, and Stoltenberg stressed that issues of profit and investment in defense production are regulated more strictly than in other sectors of the economy. This, however, should not deter potential investors as it ensures the maintenance of national security.
Stoltenberg expressed hope that the participants of the NATO industry forum will help the alliance to develop effective strategies for responding to new challenges and threats in a complex global context.
