"At a time when information is being used as a tool to influence society, it is extremely important to strengthen the capacity of NATO to communicate effectively in this challenging environment in compliance with the basic principles of democracy, which can be ensured by independent research organisations such as NATO StratCom COE," stressed Mr. Vejonis on his visit to the NATO StratCom COE on 9th April. 

The Minister was briefed about the Programme of Work, and became acquainted with the newly appointed international experts from Italy, Poland and the United Kingdom. The Minister was also briefed about ongoing research regarding the Strategic Communications capabilities of the Allied countries, the use of social media in hybrid warfare, and the evaluation of lessons learned from NATO Strategic Communications during the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) security mission in Afghanistan from 2003 to 2014.