MONS, Belgium - The President of Poland, Andrzej Duda, paid a visit to Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) on Monday, Jan. 18, 2016.

During the visit, President Duda met with Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Philip Breedlove as well as other senior military staff.  A number of key issues were on the agenda including political and military challenges facing the Alliance and current operations.

"As you know, this is a critical time for the Alliance and Europe as a whole," said General Breedlove.  "Security remains crucial to our mission and your nations' commitment is vital to our Alliance," he added.

President Duda thanked General Breedlove for his support to his nation saying, "Efforts in strengthening the eastern flank of the Alliance is important to Poland."

Prior to his arrival at SHAPE, President Duda met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.  The Secretary General praised Poland's practical and political commitments to the Alliance and underscored that Poland plays a significant part in NATO's command structure, supporting operations planning and exercises. The 2016 Warsaw Summit was also discussed throughout the day. 

In July, heads of state and government of Allied nations will gather in Warsaw to evaluate and provide strategic direction for Alliance activities.