Stoltenberg seeks unity from NATO countries despite submarine disputes

Stoltenberg said NATO members should not allow the dispute between France and the United States and Great Britain to lead to a permanent division.

EU leaders have supported France in a dispute over Australia's decision to give up an agreement with the French to buy submarines and sign a trilateral Asia-Peacekeeping agreement with the United States and Britain.

However, Stoltenberg supported neither side, and in an interview with the AP, he stressed unity about the Alliance's main goals.

I fully understand France's frustration. At the same time, NATO allies agree on the most important things, and this is that we have to be united in order to face common challenges, including changing the global balance of power,” he said.

Stoltenberg voiced confidence that France, Great Britain and the United States “will find a way forward and will not allow disputes to create permanent problems for the” alliance.

French officials have consistently condemned the conclusion of the agreement and the three countries' new strategic partnership, considering it a betrayal.

EU foreign ministers voiced support for France after the meeting at the UN General Assembly session.

Australia claims that the submarine deal refers to protecting its strategic interests amid general concerns about increasing China's influence.

The official Canber cancelled the purchase of 12 French oil submarines worth $66 billion, and instead decided to buy at least eight technologically advanced nuclear submarines from Great Britain and the US.

Great Britain and the United States insist that the dispute should not disrupt their overall relations with France.