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Nato
ChinaMilitary

Nato chief urges US, EU to mend alliance to stop China ‘bullying countries all over the world’

  • Nato chief describes China’s behaviour as ‘undermining the rule of law’
  • European Parliament members ask Stoltenberg questions about China, suggesting anxiety about its threat

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“If you’re concerned about the rise of China, the military and economic strength of China, that makes it even more important that we stand together, Europe and North America in Nato,” said Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg. Photo: European Union via Xinhua
Finbarr Bermingham
The United States and European Union must quickly repair their alliance if they are to deal with the rise of a “more aggressive” and “threatening” China, said the chief of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato).

Addressing European Parliament committees on security and foreign affairs, Jens Stoltenberg said that Nato should work with partners in the Asia-Pacific region if it is to stop China “bullying countries all over the world”.

“If you’re concerned about the rise of China, the military and economic strength of China, that makes it even more important that we stand together, Europe and North America in Nato,” said Stoltenberg.

He described China’s behaviour as “undermining the rule of law” and he welcomed “President Biden’s clear commitment to rebuilding alliances and strengthening Nato”.

Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg takes part in videoconference at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium on Monday. Photo: EPA-EFE
Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg takes part in videoconference at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium on Monday. Photo: EPA-EFE

Nato, a military alliance between 30 European and North American countries, endured a tough four years when former US president Donald Trump repeatedly threatened to withdraw from the group, claiming that European members were not paying their way.

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