NATO defense ministers to discuss key issues at meeting

ANKARA

NATO defense ministers will discuss key issues, including missions and operations, in a two-day meeting in Brussels starting on Thursday, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Wednesday.

"We will also discuss the situation in northeast Syria. I welcome the significant reduction in violence following the joint statement by Turkey and the United States.

"It is important that all forces on the ground act with restraint and with full respect of international humanitarian law. The recent developments underscore the urgent need for a political solution," Stoltenberg told reporters.

Stoltenberg added NATO plays an important role in the fight against terrorism, and the ministers will also discuss the Alliance's training mission in Iraq.

"We will restate our commitment to our mission in Afghanistan, which ensures that this country does not become a safe haven for international terrorists once again," he added.

The NATO chief said the ministers will also discuss NATO's responses to hybrid threats.

"Allies should conduct a thorough assessment of the risks to communications systems associated with cyber threats. As well as the consequences of foreign ownership, control or direct investment," he added.