701 -165 University Ave. Toronto, Ontario, NEWSLETTER M5H 3B8 www.atlantic -council.ca June 2010 info@atlantic -council.ca June 2010 Tel: 416 -979 -1875 Fax: 416 -979 -0825

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Atlantic Council Interns 2

2010 Spring Conference 3

Major Peter St. Denis: 4 Roundtable Presentation President’s Message

Canada’s Healers at War 5 internship, but now we have to younger scholars to Welcome to the June the happy pleasure of wel- share their research and Atlantic Council Tribute Dinner 6 edition of the Atlantic Coun- coming him back. He has writing. In this issue, you

cil Newsletter. The bright, just been informed that he is will find an insightful arti- Greek Military Spending In Light 7 crisp look of the layout is Of the Euro Zone Crisis the recipient of one of four cle on Greek military due to the efforts of our new Security and Defence Forum spending by Monika Interview with Captain (Ret’d.) 9 TCHC intern, Amina Yasin, fellowships from the Depart- Wyrzykowska, University Trevor Greene whose bio you will meet on ment of National Defence, of Toronto graduate stu- the next page, along with which he has chosen to serve dent, who is also volunteer- information on three other at the Atlantic Council of ing at the ACC. new interns. . He will begin his I would also like to draw Last month, we said good- fellowship in September. your attention to the up- bye to Jonathan Preece who We are continuing our focus coming events listed below. completed his volunteer on giving opportunities

Chairman The Hon. Bill Graham PCQC Upcoming Events

Immediate Past Chairman Col. Dr. Frederic L.R. Jackman CStJ PhD OOnt . The Atlantic Council of Canada The Atlantic Council of Canada

President and the Toronto Branch of the invites you to the Julie Lindhout Naval Officer’s Association of Canada MA MEd 2010 Ottawa Fall Conference cordially invite you to the On Newsletter Layout Editor Amina Yasin Cyber Warfare BA NAVAL CENTENNIAL GALA held at 1910-2010 The Lester B. Pearson Building at Need a source? Contact us at [email protected] At the Fairmont Royal York Hotel DFAIT on On Membership Information Saturday, November 6th, 2010 Wednesday November 17th, 2010 Regular & Partner/Spouse $125 Regular $75 Senior $50 Young Professional $50 Full-time Student $25

For full details please visit www.atlantic-council.ca

701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] PagePage 22 June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca Atlantic Council Interns “NEW INTERNS ”

Kirsty Hong is currently completing her Master of Arts in Political Science at the Center for European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies at the University of Toronto. She specializes in “Kirsty studied both Polish and Ukrainian” NATO relations, nuclear weapons proliferation, nuclear strategy, and ballistic missile defense. She travelled extensively around Western and Eastern Europe, working and studying in Finland, , and Poland, and studied both Polish and Ukrainian. Kirsty started her internship at the ACC in May and is excited to be a part of the leading think tank on transatlantic issues. She hopes to contribute positively to the ACC through publica- tions and helping with conferences and events, as well as to gain more experience that will help her in her future ambitions with NATO. She can be reached at [email protected].

Amina Yasin graduated from the University of Guelph with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Public Policy, with a focus on Public Policy, Administration, Governance and Law. She will be pursuing her MSc in International and Capacity Development with a focused interest in public policy and development issues this fall. Amina has quite a few years of diverse professional public sector, NGO, international development work and volunteer experiences. Over the past couple of years she has been able to work with local and international development agencies such as Soli- darites a French emergency humanitarian aid agency in Nairobi, Kenya. She also participated as a project lead for Project Serve Canada – Mississippi 2009 as well as a Canadian Delegate at the 4 th World Youth Congress in Quebec City 2008. Amina has also worked as a civil servant within the public sector at the Government of and has most recently worked with the University of Guelph Human Rights and Equity Office as a Human “Amina has quite a few years of diverse Rights Resource Person and Fact Finder over the last year. She is fluent in professional public sector, international English, Swahili, and can understand Somali. Through her internship with development, and NGO work experiences.” the Atlantic Council, Amina looks forward to learning about transatlantic issues and better understanding the role of NATO in international affairs particularly as it relates to the role that international institu- tions such as NATO and national institutions such as the ACC play in supporting the rights of marginalized communities on the na- tional level and internationally. She can be reached at [email protected]

“Nino has extensive experience working as Nino Marshania graduated from the Uni- a TV reporter and freelance journalist.” versity of Montreal with a Masters in science of communication, specializing in media and or- ganizational communication. Nino holds a Bachelors degree in International Journalism from Tbilisi State University. Along with working with International Organizations such as the Red Cross, Nino has been actively involved in volunteering for Free the Children, Rotary Foundation, and Salvation Army. As Rotary Ambassadorial scholar she was dedicated to promoting cultural diversity and un- derstanding. Nino has extensive experience working as a TV reporter and freelance journalist. Cur- rently she is pursuing her studies in Communication and Culture at York and Ryerson Universities, specializing in cultural studies and politics and policy. Nino is also a coordinator for Eco-Art Media Festival at York University. She speaks fluent French, English, Russian, Lithuanian, Georgian and basic Spanish. As an intern with the ACC Nino hopes to enrich her knowledge of NATO and Canada’s involvement, as well as acquire experience working with a Canadian NGO. She can be reached at [email protected]

Monika Wyrzykowska is currently completing her Master’s Degree at the Centre for European, Rus- sian, and Eurasian Studies at the University of Toronto, with a specialization in Political Science and His- tory. She also earned “Monika is a former Director of Communications for the her Bachelor of Arts degree at the university, with a double major in national board of the Canadian Polish Congress.” Economics and European Studies. Her research interests include the enlargement of the eurozone into Poland and the potential new member states, as well as the political implications of the current debt crisis. Monika is also very active in the Polish-Canadian community. Currently serving as President of the Polish Students’ Association at U of T, she is a former Director of Communications for the national board of the Canadian Polish Congress and an alumnus of the First School for Leaders of the North American Polish Community in Warsaw sponsored by the Polish Senate. Wishing to expand her knowledge of transat- lantic issues and Canadian policy interests, Monika is looking forward to utilizing her knowledge of Polish, German, and French, organization skill, as well as her research experience to make a significant contribution at the Atlantic Council of Canada during her internship. She can be reached at [email protected] 701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca PagePage 33 May,June, 20102010 www.atlantic-council.ca Page 3

Atlantic Council 2010 Spring Conference MINIMIZING CONFLICT IN THE RACE FOR NATURAL RESOURCES: SECURING ECONOMIC STABILITY IN THE 21 st CENTURY Written by Tanah Sullivan

pertaining to resource security from of influence or as economic Above: Mohammed Yahya, Manager, UN Interagency Framework geopolitical, economic and military levers in international politics, Team for Resource Management and Preventative Action, New York.; standpoints. Conference attendees were and the need to reform the out- Dr. Maureen S. Crandall, Professor of Economics, offered an in-depth look at many differ- dated international organiza- National Defence University, Washington, D.C. ent aspects of resource scarcity from an tions of today. Below:Dr. James Boutilier, Special (Policy) Advisor, Commander, maritime Forces Pacific, C.F.; Below Right: Peter Gibson, Manager, impressive list of speakers from a wide The second session offered a Director, Strategy and Quantitative Research, CIBC range of industries and professional closer look at energy for the backgrounds. The speakers provided next decade, looking at the thorough, informed and detailed discus- impact of energy security on sions that sparked debate and dialogue the private sector on how resource- and from within security will im- “Thorough, informed and detailed discussions sparked the economic pact both the spectrum. The public and debate and dialogue on how panelists were private sectors NATO will define its role in Dr. Maureen S. and how NATO dealing with the increasingly Crandall, Profes- will define its complex security sor of Econom- role in dealing issue.” ics from the Na- with the tional Defence increasingly complex security issue. University, Washington D.C., The conference was divided into Mr. Peter Gibson, Managing three sessions, following a welcome Director of Portfolio Strategy address and introduction from the Hon. and Quantitative Research at Above Right:Col. Bill Graham, Chairman of The Atlantic CIBC and Dr. James A. Boutil- Dwayne Hobbs; Ed Council of Canada. The first session ier, Special Advisor and Com- Badovinac, Bernard identified global resource needs and mander of the Maritime Forces R. Wilson. Above security issues, with panelist Pacific. Left: Paul Davis, Mohamed Yahya, manager of the The third session, looking at Andy Mahut, & United Nations Interagency Framework Col. Andrew Budd, the importance of minerals, Below Left: Mo- Team for Resource Management Pre- included Mr. Harry Skinner, hammed Yahya, ventive Action, presenting his view on Senior Researcher of the G8/ Manager, UN, New the UN’s response to the challenges G20 Group at the University of York. & Ed Ba- faced by resource-rich developing dovinac. Below Toronto, Mr. Ian London, Mar- countries and its cooperation with other ket Development and Energy Right: Col. agencies such as the EU in dealing with McKenna & Col. Advisor of Avalon Rare Metals Brian MacDonald. resource-based conflict. Colonel An- and Mr. Bernard R. Wilson, Right: Rear- drew Budd, Branch Chief of the Strate- Lead Director of Consolidated Admiral Maddison. gic Policy and Concepts Branch at the Thompson Iron Mines Limited. NATO Headquarters, offered a military perspective to the issue, focusing on the The Atlantic Council’s annual Spring Conference was threat of future conflict and the security held on April 8, 2010 at Trinity College, at the University challenges arising from resource scar- of Toronto. This year’s topic was ‘ Minimizing Conflict in city and climate change. He discussed the Race for Natural Resources: Securing Economic Stabil- the threats posed by those with rich ity in the 21 st Century’, looking at different issues resources, using oil and gas as weapons

701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca Page 4 June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca The Atlantic Council had the privi- lege of welcoming Rear-Admiral Paul A. Maddison, Commander of the Mari- time Forces Atlantic, who delivered a highly-informative keynote address on the new challenges faced by Canada’s Navy.

The Spring Conference ended on a much more informal note, as attendees and participants mingled and continued discussions over cheese platters and wine at the conference reception. Every- one was also given the much-anticipated opportunity to meet and talk with the speakers, other Atlantic Council mem- bers and colleagues and Rear-Admiral Maddison. The reception, brought to- gether people from varying backgrounds and professions to fulfill The Atlantic Council’s aim of promoting awareness and dialogue amongst the Canadian pub- lic on global security issues. Overall, it was not only an educational and infor- mative event, but also one that provided Above: Maj. Peter St. Denis patrols the Panjway District, on Jan. 21, 2009 . a valuable opportunity to discuss one of the world’s most pressing security con- police schools, including the FBI Academy predominantly a liaison between the military cerns with highly-qualified and knowl- in Virginia. Following a range of regimental force and the civilian population, and active edgeable specialists and experts. appointments, Major St. Denis volunteered in the coordination of military support to the to deploy as the com- civilian population, as well A Roundtable Speaker mander of the CIMIC “[It’s] about capacity as the coordination of ci- Presentation Company, in August, building, and the importance of vilian support to the mili- 2008, (KPRT). tary force. Major St. With working with the Afghan Major St. Denis National Development Strategy, Denis’ presentation pro- Major Peter St. Denis vided ACC members and spoke to ACC mem- which comprises governance, “Civilian Military Operation: guests an insider’s per- bers and guests about reconstruction and security.” Accomplishing Aid in Afghanistan” his reflections on re- spective on the reconstruc- Written by Tanah Sullivan construction in Afghanistan, particularly in tion efforts in Kandahar, a the province of Kandahar. He offered his strategic region that shares a border with perspectives on the different facets of the Pakistan. His contributions to Canadian re- reconstruction process in Kandahar, and the construction efforts in Kandahar have been logistical and tactical aspects of the opera- significant, and he promoted the work of the n March 17, 2010 the Atlantic Coun- O tions he was involved in. He spoke about CIMIC teams as an integral part of the re- cil of Canada, its members and guests capacity building, and the importance of construction and rebuilding process of Kan- were privileged to hear the valuable in- dahar. working with the Afghan National Develop- sights of Major Peter St. Denis of the ment Strategy, which comprises govern- Major St. Denis’ experiences in Afghani- CIMIC Company and his views on the ance, reconstruction and security. By sup- stan have given him a comprehensive and in- civilian military operations in Afghani- porting the Afghans, Major St. Denis vali- depth understanding of the impact of the stan. Prior to his posting as commander dated their willingness in cooperating and conflict on the civilian population, which of CIMIC with Task Force 3-08 Opera- collaborating with CIMIC operations. With will be a vital part of the recon- tion Athena, Major St. Denis has served 8 CIMIC teams throughout Kandahar prov- struction process and towards Left: Maj. Peter St. as a UN Peacekeeper in Cyprus, where ince, Major St. Denis was instrumental in building a sustainable peace in Denis, the Officer in he was awarded the Meritorious Service the mitigation between military forces on Afghanistan. Command of CIMIC Cross for his actions during an armed Company, speaks at the ground and the local Afghan communi- The Atlantic Council stand-off on the Green Line, transferred ties. He explained the role of CIMIC as to the Army Reserve in 1990 and had a of Canada Roundta- ble series on March full-time career in policing with the Peel 17, 2010; Atlantic Regional Police Service. After 15 yeas Council President of policing, Major St. Denis became a Julie Lindhout. college professor with Mohawk College and was a visiting instructor at several

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Above: Commodore H.W. Jung , OMM CD. Above Left: Commodore Hans W. Jung, “Canada’s Healers at War” with Her Excellency the right Honourable Governor General of Canada Michaëlle A Roundtable Speaker Jean at the Citadelle of Québec on his pro- Presentation motion and appointment to his current With position. Above Center: Commodore Hans Jung (right), the Canadian Forces Surgeon Commodore H.W. Jung, OMM CD General, speaks to the gathered members of Written by Nino Marshania the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) Medical Clinic in Jacmel, Haiti. Bottom row: Commodore H.W. Jung Pre- NATO tactical evaluator at the Canadian CF Health Services are also mentoring sents at the Atlantic Council Roundtable Forces. After joining the Canadian two local hospitals in Kandahar in order series on Thursday April 29th, 2010. Forces in 1981, Commodore Jung served to build their capacity and meet patients’ in the air campaign of the 1991 Persian needs. The Commodore also spoke of a Gulf War. He was appointed to the Or- new rocket proof Military Hospital that der of Military Merit in 2001 and pro- is currently being constructed in Kanda- moted to his current rank in June 2009 as har, it will be fully operational in three the Director General Health Services and months time. Commodore Jung briefly n Thursday, April 29th, the Atlantic appointed Commander of the Canadian elaborated on CF Health Services par- O Forces Health Services Surgeon General ticipation in the Haiti disaster relief and Council of Canada hosted a presentation and Queen’s Honorary Physician. He the crucial role played in evacuating with Commodore H.W. Jung, OMM CD, commands over 6,000 CF health care Canadian entitled nationals. The final Surgeon General of the Canadian Forces professionals. Canadian Forces Health part of the presentation was dedicated to (CF). Commodore Jung spoke about the Services operate over 40 domestic units the issues around mental health services Health Services of the Canadian Forces and three units overseas; two in Europe within CF that have received substantial and how they operate across Canada and and one in Afghanistan. As Commodore coverage in the media since CF’s de- overseas. The Jung noted, in ployment in Afghanistan. Commodore Commodore “[The Commodore is] developing a 2006 CF Health Jung spoke in detail about the Post De- addressed the patient-oriented mental health program and Services took ployment Assessment procedures, treat- challenges of over a US Army ment and diagnosis for Post Traumatic providing ex- introducing new mental health campaigns such as “Be the Difference Campaign” led Military Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mild Trau- cellent health- hospital in Kan- matic Brain Injury (MTBI). He also geared towards facilitating fellow care services dahar, Afghani- spoke about developing a patient- in an opera- servicemen to seek potentially needed stan. Working oriented mental health program and in- tions area dur- treatment and within multina- troducing new mental health campaigns ing wartime assistance, pre or post deployment.” tional teams, CF such as “Be the Difference Campaign” and after vet- Health Service geared towards facilitating fellow ser- erans return home, followed by the Post representatives have access to highly vicemen to seek potentially needed treat- Deployment Assessment. To conclude, mobile modern medical equipment spe- ment and assistance, pre or post he spoke about the Canadian Forces in cially designed for combat situations. deployment. the NATO context, and his experience as

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Atlantic Council Tribute Dinner 2010 Honouring CANADIAN HERO & PEACE WARRIOR Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene Written by Amina Yasin

The Atlantic Council’s 2010 Annual who have made distinctive contributions Exceptional Children in Kabul, Afghani- Tribute Dinner at Trinity College, to the strengthening of the transatlantic stan. of the University of Toronto hon- “Trevor’s journey of service and hope quickly became A native of Sydney, Nova Sco- tia, Trevor Greene graduated in oured Captain (Retired) Trevor one of survival and courage. He has... th 1988 from the University of King’s Greene on Tuesday, May 18 struggled against the odds to reclaim his life.” with the Exceptional Contribu- College with an Honours Bachelor tion to International Peace and Security in Journalism. A journalist by Award . Trevor Greene was presented the relationship. Each year, the award recog- trade, Trevor Greene has demonstrated Annual Award for his distinguished inter- nizes a Canadian who has made a signifi- his powerful social conscience by draw- national leadership primarily concerning cant contribution to international peace and ing public attention to the voices of the his extraordinary work in Afghanistan that security, and to furthering the values the silent; nationally, through his published helped to address pressing humanitarian founding members set forth in the North reports on the missing prostitutes of Van- challenges and worked towards developing Atlantic Treaty: “to safeguard the freedom, couver, Bad Date: The Lost Girls of Van- community capacity within the local popu- common heritage, and civilization of their couver’s Low Track, and internationally lation in support of the military mission. peoples, founded on the principles of de- with his second publication, Bridge of mocracy, individual liberty, and the rule of Tears: The Hidden Homeless of Japan. Since 2007, the Atlantic Council of law.” The award consists of a citation and Trevor is also currently developing a nar- Canada has brought together influential a financial contribution made in the name rative of his very difficult ordeal during Canadian leaders to honour individuals of the recipient to the Sarahim School for and after the attack in Afghanistan.

Service and courage have no finer rep- resentative than Captain Trevor Greene. He has dedicated his life thus far to reach- ing out to the less fortunate, through his volunteer work for Ethiopia Airlift and for the World University Service of Can- ada (WUSC), arranging the sponsorship of refugee African students to attend Ca- nadian Universities. Joining the Canadian Military, he was part of the Civilian- Military Cooperation unit (CIMIC) to Afghanistan, which offered him the chance to combine his humanitarian com- passion and his civilian and military ex- perience in a community development capacity.

In March of 2006, during his term in Afghanistan, the Canadian soldier and journalist suffered a vicious axe attack to his head that inflicted severe brain dam- age while attending a community meet- ing, called shura , with village elders out- side of Kandahar to discuss the provision of healthcare, roads, and clean water for Above: Head table; The Hon. Bill Graham, Chairman of The Atlantic Council of Canada presents Captain homes and farms. Trevor’s journey of (Retired) Trevor Greene with award; Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene addresses Tribute Dinner attendees; service and hope quickly became one of Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene & fiancée Debbie Lepore; Atlantic Council President Julie Lindhout with ACC staff and interns.

701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca Page 7 June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca survival and courage. He has determinedly evening Grey Horse Corporation repre- General to Afghanistan and former Cana- fought against the predictions of doctors sented by Paul G. Smith, President and dian Ambassador to Afghanistan, Christo- who did not hold out much hope for recov- CEO, and Gillian Hewitt Smith. As well pher Alexander. ery and has struggled against the odds to as Kathryn Langley Hope of KE Hope During his speech Trevor Greene spoke reclaim his life. His battle to recover his Consultants-BioMedNova . We also thank about the desire that Afghans have for communication and motor skills has become The Dominion of Canada General Insur- peace and stability in their lives and na- a continuing inspiration for Canadians and ance Company for sponsoring the recep- tion, and mentioned the crucial role of people the world over. tion. The evening guests received a wel- education in the peace and re-development Trevor Greene has successfully spent his come address and introduction from the process as a “key to long-term stability.” life thus far seeking to make a difference. Hon. Bill Graham, followed by a dinner’s He alluded to the important role that the Today, his commitment to advocacy encom- Grace from Col. (Ret.) John C. McKenna, international community plays in Afghani- passes much more than the underprivileged ACC Vice-President, and lastly a loyal stan and foretold of a future without it in our own Canadian cities and within the toast from Mrs. Julie stating, “If we fail in Afghanistan, anarchy simplest of remote Aghan towns. Trevor Lindhout. During the dinner, guests will reign for untold generations.” He Greene represents the power of the human dined on a terrific spread provided by was particularly eager to tackle the issues spirit to conquer physical adversity against Trinity College catering. Award recipient of bringing education to girls and women the odds in order to give to others. Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene, was during his deployment in Afghanistan and presented with the Exceptional Contribu- The Tribute Dinner began on an informal the same conviction resonated in his clos- tion to International Peace and Security ing remarks, “ educate a boy, you educate note as attendees were provided with the Award by Atlantic Council Chairman the opportunity to mingle and chat over wine an individual, educate a girl and you Hon. Bill Graham and President Julie enlighten a whole community.” with our distinguished guest speaker at the Lindhout. Attendees of the Tribute events reception. The dinner began Dinner then received a much-anticipated The Tribute Dinner ended on a formal promptly at 7:00 pm in Strachan Hall of address from the heroic and inspirational note as guest speaker the Hon. Bill Gra- Trinity College. The Head Table was intro- Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene who ham, PC, QC, Chairman ended the night’s duced by Atlantic Council President Julie began his speech by saying how humbled festivities with his closing remarks. After- Lindhout, and included our distinguished he was to be honoured alongside previous wards, attendees and guest speakers con- guests Captain (Retired) Trevor Greene, his Atlantic Council award recipients: Gen- tinued to network and discuss the evening fiancée Debbie Lepore, the Hon. Bill Gra- eral (Retired) Rick Hillier, Major-General events. The Tribute Dinner was a success- ham, Chairman of The Atlantic Council of David Fraser, and former UN Deputy ful affair as it brought together a diverse Canada and our generous sponsors for the Special Representative of the Secretary group of people from varying backgrounds and professions to honour a Canadian hero who has dedicated himself to the pursuit of Greek Military Spending in Light international peace and security. of the Euro Zone Crisis “If Only Two NATO Members Could Bury the Hatchet” Written by Monika Wyrzykowska merely hamper economic development, travel and trade but they will increase the cost of internal security even more.” The In light of the euro zone debt crisis that Committee of experts of the recently un- has spread from Greece, many European veiled draft “Strategic Concept for countries, among them NATO members, NATO” , chaired by former U.S. Secretary are looking at their military spending as a of State Madeleine Albright, underlined possible source for budget cuts. As the need for NATO members to maintain NATO’s Secretary General, Anders Fogh defence spending if the Alliance is to con- Rasmussen, warns that excessive cuts in tinue its effort in Afghanistan and deal defence budgets risk undermining the with threats from terrorism and cyber Alliance’s strategic concept for global warfare. Pointedly, only six of NATO's security in the years ahead, it is Greece 26 European members are currently meet- who is being scrutinized for its bloated former Prime Minister of Denmark, said he ing their defence spending target of two defence spending, the highest in Europe understood the pressure to cut defence spending percent of GDP. Heavily indebted Greece in proportion to GDP. While at the core in a number of European countries such as the and its rival Turkey are two of these of the problem is Greece’s relationship UK: “…I know how, when you have to cut countries. welfare programmes, it is very hard to exclude with Turkey, the debt crisis is giving The Greek defence budget was the your defence programme from such cuts…If Greece the extra impetus needed to im- subject of discussion at the NATO Parlia- you make cuts that are too deep in defence prove relations with its traditional rival. mentary Assembly in Riga spending, you affect long-term security. And In an interview with the Financial we know that insecurity and instability will not Times, Mr. Rasmussen, speaking as a 701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca Page 8 on May 31 st . British Member of Parlia- before disarmament can take place, reduction in its military capabilities, ment, Peter Bottomley, enquired after the meanwhile maintaining a military doc- namely reducing its air and sea presence level of Greek military spending, and trine of “equal retaliation” with Turkey, from disputed territory, removing forces whether it was expected to be reduced which requires something close to parity from northern Cyprus, and finally shrink- in military capabilities. ing the defence budget. following the 110-billion-euro bailout from the European Union and the Interna- Yet Turkey has twice as big an econ- If Greece does reduce its military tional Monetary Fund. In exchange for the omy as Greece, more than three times as budget, the key would be where the cuts bailout, Greece is expected to raise its many troops and a population close to are made. Modernization investments are retirement age, reform its pension system, seven times as large . Furthermore, Tur- “essential” for the Greek military, and reduce its public sector spending. key has emerged over the last decade as “especially in the land forces, however Although an IMF Press Release states that a growing regional power. However, cutting away the dead wood of the mili- “there will be a significant reduction in Turkish relations with Greece have been tary apparatus” would be “not only possi- military expenditures during the program normalizing ever since Recep Tayyip ble, but welcome,” according to period,” there are no detailed plans. Erdoğan of the Justice and Development Economides of the LSE. The key to the Speaking at the Parliamentary Assembly, Party (AK Party) became Prime Minister future of Greek defence spending lies in Spyros Economides, senior lec- the building of mutual trust turer on international relations at “Despite the country's tip into recession, the Greek with Turkey. Keeping their the London School of Economics defence budget actually rose nominally by 6.9 absolute spending on par with (LSE), commented that “nowhere Turkey is an unsustainable have I seen the level of those cuts, percent in 2009 from € 5.81 billion to € 6.24 proposition. Although no con- or where they are going to come billion.” crete agreement on this issue from.” was reached in the May sum-

Greek military spending has consis- in 2003. “A principle of zero problems mit, the 21 other bilateral agreements that tently been among the highest, as a pro- towards neighbours has been success- were concluded are clearly a sign of good portion of GDP, in the Alliance for dec- fully implemented for the past seven will between the two NATO neighbours. ades, largely in response to tensions with years”, explains Turkey’s Foreign Minis- Greece has to turn its attention to restruc- their neighbour, fellow NATO member, ter in a May 2010 interview with For- turing its public sector spending, working and longstanding rival, Turkey. Despite eign Policy Magazine. This policy has within the fiscal constraints of the EU- the country's tip into recession, the Greek resulted in talks of an ‘entente’ in mili- IMF bailout package, and reducing its tary spending. spending to comparable proportions in defence budget actually rose nominally by 6.9 percent in 2009 from € 5.81 billion to On Friday, May 14 th , 2010 the Turkish Europe (i.e. 2-3% of GDP). € 6.24 billion. A country with a popula- Prime Minister visited Athens with 10 tion of 11 million, Greece was the world’s ministers and some 80 businessmen to fifth-largest weapons importer between discuss a plethora of issues, in what both *Disclaimer 2005 and 2009, according to the Stock- sides hailed as a new era in ties between : Any views or opinions ex- holm International Peace Research Insti- two NATO members. The countries pressed in this article are solely those of tute (SPIRI). Now Greece faces the chal- signed 21 bilateral agreements on issues the authors and do not necessarily repre- lenge of taming its 13.6 percent budget ranging from tourism, energy and envi- sent those of the Atlantic Council of deficit to the allowed 3 percent ceiling ronment, to curbing illegal migrants Canada. This article is published for in- mandated by the EU’s Stability & Growth coming through Turkey, a major prob- formation purposes only. Pact by 2014. lem for Greece. Yet no plan on reduc-

Already the 2010 defence budget has tions on military spending emerged, and been reduced, nonetheless, the figure the two leaders made no mention of de- represents the highest annual allocation in fence budgets in the follow-up news conference. real terms among all of Europe's NATO member states. In light of the not alto- Cutting military spending may also gether new economic challenges facing not be unwelcome for Erdogan, since it Greece, one has to wonder why Greek would likely help curb the political influ- military spending has been exempt from ence of Turkey’s army. Throughout his public scrutiny for so long. Since the end premiership, Erdogan has clashed with of the Cold War, lingering issues between generals who view his Islamist-rooted Turkey and Greece, involving territorial party as a threat to Turkey’s secular sys- disagreements and questions about the tem. Currently, dozens of military offi- diplomatic status of Turkish-controlled cers are facing trial on charges of plot- Northern Cyprus, have spurred the ting to oust Erdogan. It is possible that spending. Territorial mistrust remains a Greece will continue to view Turkey as constant flashpoint. Greek officials say its principle strategic threat, unless Tur- the causes of tensions need to be resolved key reciprocates with evidence of a

701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca Page 9

Written by Tanah Sullivan

... educate the women, and they become mothers. They train their kids to have open minds and imagination, that will keep them from joining the Taliban.

On May 18, 2010, the Atlantic Council 2006 in a small village located in the Gum- The Atlantic Council aims to was privileged to honour Captain (Ret.) bad area, 70 kilometres from Kandahar bring NATO to the Canadian Trevor Greene at the Annual Tribute Din- City. Taking off his helmet as a sign of re- public, and one important aspect of its ner. The Atlantic Council's Annual Award spect for the village elders, Trevor was mandate is to educate youth and stu- for Exceptional Contribution to Interna- completely vulnerable to the attack that oc- dents about Canada's role in NATO and tional Peace and Security recognizes a Ca- curred minutes later, when a young Afghan its operations. What do you think the nadian who has made a significant contribu- man swung an axe into Trevor's head. The ACC should tell young people about tion to international peace and security, who injuries he sustained were so serious that his this, and how they can be involved in embodies the very values and principles fellow soldiers assumed him dead. Yet, true Canada's mission in Afghanistan? to his courageous nature and fighting spirit, upon which the North Atlantic Treaty was I think, um...tell them what founded. Trevor Greene has successfully Trevor not only survived but, against all odds, managed to essentially re-wire his we've accomplished in Afghani- turned his own personal tragedy into a pur- stan, in terms of the kids, and the women. poseful mission to promoting education for brain, disproving all the experts' diagnoses that he would be a vegetable for the rest of Tell them what it takes, tell them what they young girls in Afghanistan, and inspiring can do to help.” and motivating others on the way. his life. Trevor has vowed that he will walk again, and has tirelessly committed himself Trevor was attacked during a shura to ensuring the work he and his team started What do you think is the most meeting. held between Canadian Forces towards rebuilding one of the most severely important element of rebuild- personnel and local village elders. Shuras affected cities in the war-ravaged country ing Afghanistan? are held to assist in fostering relationships continues. His fiancée, Debbie Lepore, has and building trust between Canadian Forces been by his side supporting him throughout soldiers and the local Afghan population, in the entire journey, giving him the support order to ensure collaborative and grass-roots and courage with an amazing strength and Yes...educate the women, and approach to the rebuilding process of local high-spirited dedication of her own. The they become mothers. They train Afghan communities. Trevor's team of sol- Atlantic Council of Canada had the privi- their kids to have open minds and imagi- diers, all of whom were a part of the Civil- lege of asking Trevor some questions on nation, that will keep them from joining ian-Military Co-operation (CIMIC) unit, Canada's role in Afghanistan, and a message the Taliban.” had fully successfully held four shuras for young people today. prior to the one that took place on March 4,

701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca June, 2010 www.atlantic-council.ca Page 10 Trying to win the hearts of the Afghan people is one of the driving forces behind Canada's civilian role in rebuilding Afghanistan. Do you think this will ever truly be accom- plished, in light of Afghanistan's history with foreign entities?

Yes, if we offer them hope. They want peace. We can offer them the ability to get it.”

Do you think the civilian- military approach is an effective tool? Do you think Canada and NATO should be using it more in future operations?

NGOs especially. Our role in Af- ghanistan was to identify what they need, and engage the NGOs to give it to them. Help build it for them. We built a dam, called the Arghandab Dam, and it was instrumental in the irrigation systems.”

Do you think NATO will have a

relevant role in the future of global security?

Yes.”

Do you think it should focus more on the civilian approach, instead of its traditional combative role?

I think it's a transition, military first, then rebuilding, then construction.”

Is there any one message you

would like to give to the mem- bers of the Atlantic Council?

Persevere. Don't give up.”

The Atlantic Council would like to sincerely thank Captain (Ret.) Trevor Greene and Debbie Lepore for giving us their time and for their commitment, perseverance and courage to building a better future for the Afghan people. Embodying the very meaning and essence of heroism, both Debbie and Trevor's unwavering commitment and efforts towards Trevor's full recovery and achieving their objective of an education for all Afghan girls is nothing short of an inspiration to all those who are lucky enough to meet them. 701-165 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 3B8, Tel 416.979.1875, Fax 416.979.0825, [email protected] www.atlantic-council.ca