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NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska used a two-day visit to Portugal to press Allies to increase defence investment, boost industrial output, and deepen cooperation across the Alliance.
During the visit on 7–8 January 2026, Shekerinska highlighted Portugal’s strategic importance within NATO and praised its operational and political contributions, according to NATO.
She framed her message against a deteriorating European security environment, warning that the Alliance faces sustained threats from Russia and aligned partners.
“Dangerous times call for decisive action,” Shekerinska said, urging Allies to translate political commitments into faster procurement and production.
Portugal’s Role in NATO and Support for Ukraine
Shekerinska commended Portugal’s continued participation in NATO missions and its military and political support for Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion.
She also welcomed Lisbon’s commitment to increasing defence spending toward the 5% of GDP target agreed at the NATO Summit in The Hague.
NATO leaders endorsed the higher benchmark as part of a broader effort to reinforce deterrence, replenish stockpiles, and sustain long-term support for Ukraine.
Portugal, located on NATO’s southwestern flank, plays a key role in maritime security and transatlantic reinforcement routes.
Alliance officials increasingly view southern Atlantic access points as critical to NATO’s overall resilience and force mobility.
Emphasis on Innovation and NATO–EU Cooperation
In Porto, Shekerinska took part in a Diplomatic Seminar titled “New Security and Defence Paradigms,” alongside Portuguese Defence Minister Nuno Melo.
European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius also joined the discussion, reflecting the growing overlap between NATO and EU defence agendas.
Shekerinska stressed that closer NATO–EU coordination remains essential for accelerating innovation and expanding defence industrial capacity.
Both organisations face similar challenges, including supply chain constraints, workforce shortages, and fragmented procurement systems.
NATO officials argue that aligning requirements and standards can help European and transatlantic industries deliver at greater scale.
Engagement with NATO Institutions in Portugal
The Deputy Secretary General also visited several NATO facilities based in Portugal, underscoring the country’s institutional importance to the Alliance.
Her programme included stops at STRIKFORNATO, NATO’s maritime strike headquarters, and the NATO Communications and Information Academy.
She also visited the NATO Joint Analysis and Lessons Learned Centre, which supports operational adaptation across the Alliance.
These institutions contribute to NATO’s ability to integrate lessons from recent operations, including Ukraine, into future planning.
Outreach to Academia and Parliament
At the Catholic University of Portugal’s Institute of Political Studies, Shekerinska addressed students and faculty on NATO’s challenges in 2026.
She highlighted unity as NATO’s defining strength amid geopolitical pressure and strategic competition.
“We are stronger together,” she said, calling unity “an incredible advantage” that Allies must actively leverage.
Her visit also included meetings with senior Portuguese political leaders, reflecting strong parliamentary engagement with NATO affairs.
Shekerinska met Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, Defence Minister Nuno Melo, and Assembly President José Pedro Aguiar-Branco.
She also held discussions with NATO Parliamentary Assembly President Marcos Perestrello and other members of the Assembly of the Republic.
According to NATO, the visit aimed to reinforce political alignment and sustain momentum behind the Alliance’s defence and deterrence agenda.
Source: NATO Press Release
