NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is an intergovernmental military alliance founded on April 4, 1949, by the signing of the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, D.C. Established to counter the Soviet threat during the Cold War, NATO’s primary goal is collective defense, ensuring mutual protection among its 32 member states. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, it promotes democratic values and fosters cooperation on defense and security issues. NATO conducts joint military exercises, supports peacekeeping missions, and responds to global threats like terrorism and cyberattacks. Its open-door policy encourages enlargement, while partnerships extend its influence beyond member nations.