Chairman of the NATO Military Committee visits Australia

Background International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)

General Ray Henault paid an official visit to Australia in mid-September, marking the first time that a Chairman of NATO’s Military Committee has visited this important Contact country.

“Australia means a great deal to the Alliance, and its contribution to NATO’s operation in Afghanistan is deeply appreciated by the Allies,” said Gen. Henault.  “With more than 1,000 troops in Southern Afghanistan, operating in a volatile area, without caveats, Australia is doing more heavy lifting than some of our own Allies.”

In addition to passing on NATO’s gratitude, Gen. Henault used his visit to enhance cooperation with Australia, by discussing the list of Contact country activities that followed the Riga Summit Declaration, such as training and exercising opportunities, as well as intelligence sharing. 

The Chairman met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Alexander Downer and the Defence Minister Dr. Brendan Nelson, as well as several other Government officials including the Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston who hosted the Chairman’s visit.

The discussions with the senior officials centered around Afghanistan and the need to find a long-term partnering arrangement so that Australia can continue to support the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

“Afghanistan is NATO’s number one operational priority and if the Alliance wants to encourage more non-NATO military support for ISAF, like that of Australia, then the nations will have to be seen to be doing their part on the ground,” added Gen. Henault.