Foreign Ministers gathered at NATO Headquarters on Thursday, April 4th, 2024, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the North Atlantic Treaty, the founding document of the Alliance. The occasion was marked with speeches, ceremonies, and various celebratory events.
NATO’s Impact
- Since its establishment in 1949, NATO has played a crucial role in ensuring peace, democracy, and prosperity among its 32 member countries, encompassing over one billion people on both sides of the Atlantic.
- The recent inclusion of Sweden as the thirty-second member highlights NATO’s expanding reach and influence.
Speech by Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg
- Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized NATO’s growth and unity over the years, stating that the Alliance is “bigger, stronger, and more united than ever.”
- He highlighted the significance of the founding treaty, which was displayed at NATO Headquarters for the first time, underscoring its pivotal role in ensuring security, prosperity, and peace for 75 years.
Statement by Admiral Bauer
- Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, praised the dedication of 3.5 million uniformed personnel across Europe and North America in safeguarding against aggression.
- He emphasized that NATO’s mission goes beyond physical safety, as it collectively defends freedom and democracy.
Anniversary Statements
- Twelve Allied Foreign Ministers commemorated their countries’ accession anniversaries: Czechia, Hungary, and Poland (25th); Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia (20th); and Albania and Croatia (15th).
- The Belgian Foreign Minister, as the host nation, delivered a speech and presented a 75th anniversary cake.
Commemorative Events
- The celebrations included a wreath-laying ceremony and live musical performances by The Royal Band of the Belgian Air Force and The Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
- Monuments throughout Brussels, including Parc du Cinquantenaire and iconic buildings, were adorned with NATO flags and illuminated in NATO blue.
- The Manneken Pis statue wore a special NATO Day costume, symbolizing Brussels’ participation in the festivities.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When did Foreign Ministers gather at NATO Headquarters to mark the Alliance’s 75th anniversary?
a) April 4, 2023
b) April 4, 2024
c) April 4, 2025
d) April 4, 2022
Answer: b) April 4, 2024 - How many member countries does NATO currently have?
a) 30
b) 32
c) 28
d) 35
Answer: b) 32 - Who delivered a speech marking the anniversary at NATO Headquarters?
a) Admiral Bauer
b) The Belgian Foreign Minister
c) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg
d) The Royal Band of the Belgian Air Force
Answer: c) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg - Which country recently joined NATO as the thirty-second member?
a) Sweden
b) Belgium
c) Finland
d) Denmark
Answer: a) Sweden - How many uniformed personnel are mentioned to be upholding NATO’s mission against aggression?
a) 1 million
b) 2 million
c) 3 million
d) 3.5 million
Answer: d) 3.5 million