The NATO Military Committee addressed military cooperation between NATO and Georgia on 30 January 2023. The purpose of the meeting was to address the present security situation in and around Georgia, the development of Georgia’s security sector, Georgia’s contributions to NATO-led missions and operations, and maritime security in the context of the Black Sea.
Admiral Bauer, chair of the NATO Military Committee, opened the meeting by extending a warm greeting to the Georgian Military Representative, Brigadier General Irakli Dzneladze, and his entourage for the inaugural meeting of this format in 2018. Admiral Bauer emphasized the significance of the NATO-Georgia Alliance, stating, “NATO and Georgia have been Partners for nearly 30 years, and during that time we have developed a mutually beneficial cooperation that has enriched and strengthened our partnership.” The Brigadier General thanked Admiral Bauer for allowing him to address the Military Committee. He emphasized that the Georgian Ministry of Defense “will continue to strengthen its efficient and results-oriented cooperation with the Alliance through the full utilization of all practical mechanisms and is confident that 2023 will be marked by intensified military cooperation and a strengthened partnership with NATO.”
In response to the briefing on Georgia’s current and prospective commitments to NATO’s Operations and Missions, the Military Committee thanked and congratulated the Georgian Military Representative “for receiving the status of Potential Operational Partner in the expanded NATO Mission Iraq last year and for applying to become Operational Partner for our Operation Sea Guardian.” Admiral Bauer stated, “Georgia has been a long-standing and dependable partner and donor of force to numerous NATO operations. I also appreciate that you want to strengthen your involvement in the NATO Response Force.”
The NATO Military Representatives were then briefed on the current security situation in and surrounding Georgia, particularly in the light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. “The constant threat posed by Russia to our allies is one of NATO’s most pressing concerns. At the Madrid Summit, NATO Heads of State and Government resolved to increase political and practical support for specific NATO Partners, notably Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and the Republic of Moldova. We will assist them in enhancing their resilience and defensive capabilities, Admiral Bauer stated.
The final discussion centered on the continued threats and difficulties originating from the Black Sea Region, particularly in the maritime realm.
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