On June 30, 2022, the NATO Summit in Madrid came to an end with resolutions that would strengthen and modernise the Alliance. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: “The decisions we have taken in Madrid will ensure that our Alliance continues to preserve peace, prevent conflict, and protect our people and our values. Europe and North America, standing together in NATO.”
As a result of increased forward defences, improved battlegroups in the Alliance’s eastern region, and an increase in the number of high readiness forces to well over 300,000, allies agreed on a major change in NATO’s deterrence and defence. Additionally, leaders decided to enhance common funds and make more investments in NATO.
Finland and Sweden, two of NATO’s closest allies, were extended invitations to join the Alliance during the summit, greatly enhancing the security of the Euro-Atlantic region. Allies also decided to strengthen the Comprehensive Assistance Package in order to provide Ukraine with long-term assistance.
A new NATO Strategic Concept, which serves as the Alliance’s road map in a world that is more dangerous and competitive, was approved by leaders. It outlines NATO’s strategy for Russia as well as other threats including terrorism, cyber, and hybrid. The Strategic Concept addresses China’s difficulties for the first time.
Leaders reached a consensus on actions to combat climate change, including goals to reduce NATO greenhouse gas emissions and achieve Net Zero status by 2050. At the summit, a new NATO Innovation Fund was also unveiled to aid the Alliance in maintaining its technical advantage.
In order to address global problems, NATO leaders met with key partners, and for the first time, partners from the Indo-Pacific region—Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea—participated in a NATO summit together. Allies also discussed NATO’s response to threats and challenges from the Middle East, North Africa, and Sahel and reaffirmed their commitment to the fight against terrorism.
At his closing press conference the NATO Secretary General said: “We face the most serious security situation in decades. But we are rising to the challenge with unity and resolve.” He thanked Spain for hosting the historic Summit and said a NATO Summit would be held in Vilnius, Lithuania next year.