Merkel: NATO must show readiness for defense, but not to break off the thread of dialogue with Russia
The German Chancellor believes that the use of such a “dual approach” is the right way.
BERLIN, may 6. /Offset. TASS Vyacheslav Filippov/. NATO should, on the one hand, to demonstrate readiness for defense, but not to break off the thread of dialogue with Russia. This was stated by German Chancellor Angela Merkel in her weekly video podcast, which was published on the website of the German government.
“I think we are using this dual approach, that is, on the one hand, to show the power, but on the other, constantly demonstrate a willingness to dialogue, chose the right path,” she said.
“For me it was very important not to break the thread of dialogue with Russia. So we all the measures implemented to remain adhered to the Founding act Russia — NATO could meet the Council Russia — NATO”, — said Merkel.
The Chancellor recalled that the decision to strengthen the NATO presence in the Eastern and southern flanks was adopted and fixed at the summits of the Alliance in Wales and Warsaw. “For me it was important that we, on the one hand, reacted to the new security situation. The annexation of Crimea and clashes in the East of Ukraine instilled a lack of confidence in NATO members Poland and the Baltic countries, and, for example, the situation in Moldova creates issues in Bulgaria and Romania”, — said Merkel.