BRUSSELS - Defense ministers of NATO allies have come together in Brussels to discuss recent developments in adaptation of NATO capabilities against new threats of the 21st century and modernization of the Alliance.
National Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul is representing Turkey at the meetings.
Extension of mission and scope of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan and a proposal to decrease number of soldiers of Stability Force (SFOR) in Bosnia-Herzegovina are among the issues to be taken up at the meetings.
During last year's summit in Prague, the Alliance has started a new move to modernize its military capabilities.
Also, it was decided to prioritize combat against terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, and equip the Alliance with necessary military capabilities against them.
The meetings have preparatory characteristics for the next summit of NATO in Istanbul in June of 2004.
National Defense Minister Gonul is expected to hold a press conference later in the day.
The meetings will end tomorrow.
Meanwhile, foreign ministers of NATO allies will convene between December 4 and 5.
(UK-AÖ) 01.12.2003