NATO HQ Hosts the Bi-annual Familiarization Programme for NATO Partner Staff Officers

Brussels, NATO HQ, 8-12 June 2026 - 29 representatives from 17 Partner Nations participated in the NATO Partner Staff Officers' Familiarization Programme. The five-day programme, jointly organized by the IMS Cooperative Security (CS) Division and SHAPE's Partnership Directorate, offered participants an in-depth overview of NATO's organizational structure and avenues for collaboration with Partner Nations.

The CS Director, Major General Eray ÜNGÜDER, opened the programme by stating: "Through briefings, interactive sessions, open dialogue, and networking, we aim to further equip all of you with insights and connections that will enhance our collective ability to work together effectively."

This programme provides an opportunity for participants to gain a deeper understanding of NATO's structure, standard procedures, and policies, with a particular focus on cooperation with Partner Nations. Participants who are nationally involved in NATO-related activities are given the opportunity to engage directly with relevant departments and enhance mutual cooperation.

The main focus of the curriculum is on active cooperation between the Alliance and partner nations through various initiatives, aimed at improving partner nations' cooperation with NATO. This includes the implementation of the Individually Tailored Partnership Programme, participation in Capacity Building programmes, engagement through the Partnership Staff Posts programme, and use of the Partnership Cooperation Menu mechanism.