As the post-Cold War world changes ever more quickly, Spain is more than ever an important player on our team. Indeed, it is simply inconceivable to imagine NATO today without Spain. But Spain's unique potential can only be achieved by maintaining the same level of commitment this country has shown so far. Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, To emphasise the need to reform our militaries does not reflect an obsession with military gimmickry, or a mistrust in political solutions. On the contrary.
Military competence is an eminently political requirement.
If there is now hope for a peaceful future for the Balkans, it is because NATO demonstrated military competence at a critical historical juncture. We cannot predict the future.