The NATO or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Conference kicked off on June 14 in Brussels, Belgium. This is the first NATO summit to be attended by US President Joe Biden since he was sworn in as the new president.
The summit, which was attended by 30 heads of state from member countries, focused on China’s emerging power and Russia. In 1947, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was formed to confront the enemies of the camp against capitalism. The main purpose at the time was to operate as an alliance against Soviet power. They also officially recognized the emerging China, as a power against them in 2019.
According to a statement issued after the summit, China identified as a threat to world security and peace. Previously, their main focus was on Russia, but they have identified China as the latest threat. The Secretary-General of NATO has known China as a “security threat to the Western camp.” He pointed out that, though they could work with China on issues such as environmental issues and arms control, its military activities and rising power posed a threat to their security. “China is coming closer to us. We must respond together as an alliance. ” He further states. In addition, the leaders’ attention is focused on the military build-up being carried out by Russia near Ukraine.
China’s role was also highlighted at the G-7 Summit in Britain.
It was the expectation of all member states that the new US leader would extend more support to NATO. Under Article five (5) of the NATO Charter, the parties hereby agree to treat any threat against Member States as “common to all”. Recalling this fifth clause, the President of the United States has assured the Summit that he will extend his support to the Member States. He added, “I want Nato to know America is there.”
