Robert Simmons will conclude his work as the special representative of
NATO to Central Asia and South Caucasus in early December, Trend
reports, citing the press-office of NATO.
He was on the position for seven years. He will be replaced with the
current NATO representative, James Apparturay.
The decision was made in early November and approved by the Secretary
General of NATO Anders Fogh Rasmussen.
The date of Apparturay's first visit to the South Caucasus as the new
representative is unknown.
Georgian media had reported earlier that Iona Lungescu was to take the position.
Cooperation between NATO and South Caucasus states, Azerbaijan,
Georgia and Armenia, is mainly based on the Partnership for Peace
program, Individual Partnership Action Plan and Planning and Analysis
Process. The documents determine the goals and intentions of the
partners in consulting with the alliance. It concerns defense reforms,
security and military policy.
Cooperation between the South Caucasus and NATO is considered a step
towards European integration and the provision of security and
stability in the region.
