Stoltenberg: NATO members must spend more than 2% of GDP on defense

"NATO member states must spend more than 2% of GDP on defense".
This was stated by the Secretary General of the Alliance, Jens Stoltenberg. His words came during the summit on the occasion of NATO's 75th anniversary, Anadolu Agency reported.
Stoltenberg stressed that important decisions about the future of NATO will be taken at the summit.
He added that measures will be taken to support Ukraine, strengthen partnerships and NATO's main mission - defense and deterrence.
"NATO's primary purpose is to prevent war and maintain peace through its deterrent power," the secretary-general said.
Stoltenberg noted that the alliance has succeeded in this regard, preventing attacks on its members for 75 years.
"Without a strong defense industry, it is impossible to ensure a strong defense," added the Secretary General.
He stated that NATO members have agreed to increase defense spending, recalling that 10 years ago a decision was made to allocate 2% of GDP to defense.
"Now we know that 2% is the minimum target and that we need to spend more. We will do more," Stoltenberg added.
"This commitment includes both increased defense spending and more effective spending to improve our ability to operate together," he said.
Stoltenberg noted that the Russian-Ukrainian war has shown not only the inadequacy of stockpiles and production capacity, but also serious problems with the allies' ability to act together. | BGNES