NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an intergovernmental military alliance established in 1949. It consists of 31 member countries from North America and Europe, committed to mutual defense against aggression. The core principle of NATO, outlined in Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, states that an armed attack against one or more members is considered an attack against them all, obligating collective defense measures. NATO was formed primarily to counter Soviet expansion during the Cold War, but its role has evolved over the years to include crisis management, cooperative security, and partnerships with non-member countries. Besides defense and security, NATO also engages in various political and diplomatic initiatives aimed at fostering stability and peace in the North Atlantic region and beyond.
The discussions about a partnership with NATO are unexpected and have surprised many in Cabo Verde. A recent *Strategic Defense Concept* emphasizes maritime security and international defense connections for the…