Scholz Pledges Continued Investment in Defense to NATO Secretary General

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz meets with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

Scholz reaffirms Germany's commitment to NATO and increased defense spending

Berlin, Feb. 20, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Berlin on Monday to discuss Germany's ongoing commitment to the alliance and its plans to increase defense spending.

Scholz reiterated Germany's unwavering support for NATO and its mission to ensure the security of its member states. He emphasized that Germany remains committed to meeting the alliance's target of spending 2% of its GDP on defense by 2025.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has raised concerns about the security of Europe. Scholz stressed that Germany is determined to strengthen its defense capabilities to address the evolving threats to the region.

"Our commitment to NATO is unshakeable," Scholz said. "We are determined to ensure that NATO remains strong and capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century."

Stoltenberg welcomed Scholz's reaffirmation of Germany's commitment to NATO. He praised Germany's efforts to increase its defense spending and modernize its armed forces.

"Germany is a vital member of NATO, and its commitment to the alliance is essential for our collective security," Stoltenberg said. "I am confident that Germany will continue to play a leading role in NATO in the years to come."

The meeting between Scholz and Stoltenberg also covered other issues related to NATO's future, including the alliance's response to Russia's aggression, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the need to strengthen NATO's deterrence and defense capabilities.