§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his policy concerning the establishment of military links between NATO and(a) north African and (b) middle eastern countries; what consideration his Department has given to the establishment of wider security co-operation with these countries; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David Davis[holding answer 13 February 1995]: NATO has no plans to establish military links with either north African or middle eastern countries. The Mediterranean initiative announced by the NATO Secretary-General on 7 February is political in nature and reflects the alliance's wish to contribute to the strengthening of regional stability, to foster better understanding of mutual concerns, and to correct any misunderstandings of the NATO's purpose that could lead to perceptions of a threat. It also seeks to complement OSCE and WEU dialogues with certain countries in the region.