Daily Current Affairs : 9-November-2023
NATO’s recent decision to suspend the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) in response to Russia’s withdrawal has significant implications for international relations, particularly in the context of the alliance’s commitment to collective defense.
Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE):
The CFE, signed in 1990, aimed to regulate conventional arms and equipment in post-Cold War Europe. Key provisions included comprehensive limits on military equipment, destruction of surplus weaponry, and verifiable constraints on NATO and Warsaw Pact nations. Considered the “cornerstone of European security,” the treaty sought to prevent sudden armed assaults and major offensive operations in the region.
NATO: An Overview:
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, established in 1949, is a political and military alliance comprising 28 European countries and two North American nations. Originally formed to ensure collective security against the Soviet Union, NATO has grown to include 30 member countries, with its headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
Collective Defense and Article 5:
Central to NATO is the principle of collective defense outlined in Article 5 of its founding treaty. Member countries commit to mutual defense in response to an armed attack. Article 5 stipulates that an attack against one member is an attack against all, requiring collective action, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain security in the North Atlantic area.
India’s Engagement with NATO:
India’s diplomatic engagement with NATO since August 2022 demonstrates its efforts to connect with various stakeholders on mutual interests. The political dialogues in Brussels and New Delhi in 2019 and 2020, respectively, underscore India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation.
Important Points:
- NATO’s Response to Russia’s Withdrawal:
- Official suspension of the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) in response to recent Russian actions.
- Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE):
- Signed in 1990 in Paris after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
- Aimed to regulate conventional arms and equipment in post-Cold War Europe.
- Key provisions included comprehensive limits on military equipment, destruction of surplus weaponry, and constraints on NATO and Warsaw Pact nations.
- Often referred to as the “cornerstone of European security.”
- NATO Overview:
- Established in 1949 as a political and military alliance.
- Comprises 28 European countries and two North American nations.
- Originally formed to ensure collective security against the Soviet Union.
- Currently has 30 member countries with headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
- Collective Defense and Article 5:
- Central to NATO’s principles is collective defense outlined in Article 5 of its founding treaty.
- Member countries commit to mutual defense in response to an armed attack.
- Article 5 stipulates that an attack against one member is an attack against all, requiring collective action, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain security in the North Atlantic area.
- India’s Diplomatic Engagement with NATO:
- India has been engaging with NATO since August 2022.
- Political dialogues in Brussels (2019) and New Delhi (scheduled for 2020, postponed due to COVID-19) signify efforts to connect with diverse stakeholders.
- Reflects India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation on matters of mutual interest.
Why In News
NATO has officially suspended a Cold War-era security treaty in response to Russia’s withdrawal from the agreement. The Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe, signed by most NATO allies in 1990, has seen its members freeze their participation in the pact in light of recent developments. This significant move underscores the heightened tensions between NATO member states and Russia, marking a pivotal moment in the geopolitical landscape.
MCQs about NATO’s CFE Treaty Suspension
-
What is the primary goal of the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE)?
A. To establish NATO’s headquarters in Brussels
B. To regulate conventional arms and equipment in post-Cold War Europe
C. To promote economic cooperation among NATO members
D. To facilitate military alliances with the Soviet Union
-
In which year was NATO established, and what was its initial purpose?
A. 1990, to counter the Warsaw Pact
B. 1945, for economic cooperation
C. 1949, for collective security against the Soviet Union
D. 2000, to address global climate issues
-
What is Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, and why is it significant?
A. It outlines NATO’s budget allocation
B. It establishes NATO’s headquarters location
C. It defines the principle of collective defense, considering an attack on one as an attack on all
D. It regulates arms control agreements
-
Why has India been engaging with NATO since August 2022?
A. To establish a new military alliance
B. To address climate change issues
C. To foster international cooperation on mutual interests
D. To negotiate arms reduction agreements
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
