ambassador remarks
Missile Defense: Working with Allies to Defend Europe
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a pleasure and a privilege to be here today among so many who are devoted to discussing important questions about the national security of the Czech Republic. I’d like to thank our hosts, The Institute of International Relations, for giving us the opportunity to share our perspectives on a major element of U.S., transatlantic and NATO security policy for the future.
Today the United States and the Czech Republic are working together bilaterally and multilaterally to examine the potential to defend Europe and North America from future threats. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Forces Policy Brian Green is here with us today to share with you his deep knowledge of U.S. Missile Defense Policy for the 21st Century. It is my hope that we will be able to offer the Czech Republic a chance to host a missile defense facility. However if the U.S. offers a facility, it will be entirely up to the Czech Republic to look at the facts and make a final decision.
I have three thoughts to share with you.
First: North Korea’s nuclear test on October 9th is a stark reminder that this is not a theoretical debate. Our current and near-term missile defense fielding activities are a direct response to Iran’s and North Korea’s relentless and methodical pursuit of nuclear weapons. It cannot be a coincidence that these two countries are also devoting massive resources to developing longer-range ballistic missiles.
Second: The U.S. proposal to place a missile defense facility in Europe is evidence of our commitment to our transatlantic friends and allies for decades to come. This concept goes beyond the defense of European territory. Without a system to protect Europe from ballistic missile attack, we would face a future where foes could try to intimidate NATO by threatening Europe. We strongly believe that Missile Defense will preserve NATO’s freedom of action.
Third: I would like to congratulate all Czechs on a milestone in their military reforms. Today’s Strong Campaigner exercise, which is certifying a rapid reaction brigade, is the largest exercise in the history of the modern Czech military. The successful completion of this exercise will demonstrate the Czech Republic’s armed forces have reached the goal of initial operational capability. The Czech Republic and NATO are stronger as a result. Like these conventional military reforms, Czech participation in Missile Defense would be an opportunity for a Czech leadership role in the defense and security of Europe. And that would be good for us all.
Thank you.
