The North Atlantic Treaty reaffirms the right of independent states to individual and collective defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. With its overarching goal stated in the preamble to promote "the stability and well-being in the North Atlantic area," NATO is committed to preserving peace and security among its member states through political and, if necessary, military means, in accordance with the UN Charter.

Congratulations to NATO on 75 years of promoting peace and security in the North Atlantic region. As we reflect our past achievements, we must also look ahead to the challenges that lie ahead

(Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank, COM JSEC)

Over the past 75 years, NATO has evolved to meet the changing security landscape, adapting its strategic concepts and military structures accordingly. One significant turning point came on 11 September 2001, when the NATO alliance invoked Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty for the first time in response to the terrorist attacks on the United States. Subsequent events, including Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, further underscored the need for NATO to reassess its strategic posture and capabilities.

In this context, the "NATO 2022 Strategic Concept," adopted shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, emphasizes the alliance's renewed focus on strengthening collective defense and deterring potential aggression. As NATO celebrates its 75th anniversary, the efforts of its 32 member states are directed towards enhancing alliance cohesion and resilience in the face of emerging threats.

Central to NATO's deterrence posture is the Joint Support and Enabling Command (JSEC) based in Ulm, Germany. Established in 2018 and achieving Full Operational Capability in September 2021, JSEC serves as a vital operational headquarters with multinational personnel under the command of German Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank. Reporting directly to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Mons, Belgium, JSEC plays a critical role in enabling NATO to set the theater for reinforcement by forces in times of peace and coordinating reinforcement and sustainment during crisis and conflicts.

With soldiers and civilians from 25 nations working together, JSEC exemplifies NATO's commitment to collective defense and interoperability among allied forces. Its mission underscores the alliance's readiness to respond to evolving security challenges and its determination to uphold the principles of democracy, freedom, and international cooperation.

As NATO marks its 75th anniversary, it is a time not only to celebrate its achievements but also to reaffirm its relevance in an ever-changing world. Through continued adaptation and cooperation, NATO and its member states remain steadfast in their commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability in the North Atlantic region and beyond.

As we embark on the next chapter of NATO's journey, we must remain vigilant and adaptable in the face of emerging threats. By working together and leveraging our collective strengths, we can ensure that NATO remains a cornerstone of international security for generations to come