The rapid dissemination of technology and information offers entirely new ways of production, but it can also bring the spectre of more states developing weapons of mass destruction.

And, perhaps most importantly, regional conflicts will again and again confront us with a cruel choice between costly engagement and costly indifference.

For years, European leaders have pointed out that Europe is an economic giant, but a military pygmy.

Well, if the NATO countries don't make more of their troops usable and don't get the equipment to get them fast where the action is, then the organisation will suffer and will increasingly become irrelevant.

If we get the capabilities, NATO, along with the European Union, can do amazing things.

The whole international community will be united in condemning what they have done.

You've got to be able to act when it's necessary to act. And you've got to be able to act where the threat is.