Three decades DEFENDING PEACE IN THE WORLD IT has been 30 years since Spain, fully assuming its responsibility to the international community, and as a reflection of the solidarity of Spanish society, decided that its Armed Forces would participate in peacekeeping operations, thus contributing to peace, stability and security in the world. Over these years, the Armed Forces have been the best exponent of our country’s commitment to building a safer, fairer and freer world, making a steadfast commitment to an international order that guarantees human rights, sustainable development and the fundamental premise of peace among nations. During these 30 years, Spain has participated in 83 international missions deployed around the world, playing an important role and contributing to the defence of peace. One hundred and eighty-six servicemen and women have lost their lives in these missions. We cannot express enough the gratitude felt by all of Spanish society to them and their families for their example and sacrifice. We are firmly committed to building an increasingly effective international security system through our contribution to international alliances or multinational structures. Our participation in NATO, as a reliable partner that makes high-quality contributions to the Alliance’s missions, enables us to emphasize the need for this organisation to look also to its Southern flank when it comes to ensuring the collective security of its members. Spain is also working on the construction of a Europe of defence, and is one of the promoters of the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy in actions such as the Dialogue Initiative or Joint Capabilities Development projects. This consolidates a European Defence Technological and Industrial Base, which also serves to promote research and technological innovation in our country. Bilateral relations in the field of defence are also of particular importance. The promotion of mutual trust through dialogue, exchange of experience and cooperation is key to shared security. As mentioned, we feel deeply proud of the performance of our Armed Forces, always flawless and inspiring during the thirty years Spain has been participating in international peace missions. These missions are the best example of Spain’s commitment to the organisations we belong to 8 Revista Española de Defensa December 2019
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