Brussels, NATO HQ, 11 September - The Colombia War College met with the NATO International Military Staff (IMS), during their annual visit to NATO. The visiting group was briefed on the ongoing practical initiatives that NATO and Colombia are undertaking to continue increasing security ties.
While at NATO HQ, the group assisted to an informative session with the Director of the NATO IMS Cooperative Security (CS) Division, Major General Eray Unguder. "For the past two years, I have witnessed Colombia's dedication to our practical military cooperation first hand and I am impressed by your contribution to our joint efforts" he explained. Additionally, he stressed that "what happens in any of these regions matters to Europe, and what happens in Europe matters globally. That is why NATO is looking to cooperate with Nations that share common values, security interests, and commitment to upholding the Rules-Based International Order."
Furthermore, the Colombian War College was briefed on practical steps NATO and Colombia are taking to enhance common security cooperation. Colonel Thomas Fischer, the branch head of the Military Cooperation Branch at IMS CS, highlighted that - since 2021 - NATO and Colombia have "hit many important milestones, such as the adoption of Colombia's ITPP (Individually Tailored Partnership Program) and Military Direction and Guidance, high-level visits and military staff talks, held either in Colombia or in Brussels."
NATO and Colombia benefit deep cooperation. In 2017, the nation became NATO's first and only Latin American partner. Main areas of mutual cooperation include: cyber security, counter-terrorism, the fight against corruption and maritime security. What's more, Colombia provides demining training to NATO Allies and partner countries through their Partner Training and Exercise Centre (PTEC), at the Colombia International Demining Centre (CIDES).
