Visit of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

The NATO Mountain Warfare Centre of Excellence (MW COE) welcomed H.E. Ms. Janneke Vrijland, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Slovenia, on an official visit on 19 November 2025. She was accompanied by Defence Attaché LtCol Erwin Bieri, marking an important engagement in strengthening defence cooperation and dialogue between the Netherlands and NATO’s community of Centres of Excellence.

Strengthening cooperation and understanding Mountain Warfare Expertise

The visit began with a comprehensive briefing on the mission, vision, and core tasks of the MW COE. Ambassador Vrijland and LtCol Bieri were introduced to the Centre’s role in developing, integrating, and promoting mountain warfare expertise across the Alliance. The presentations highlighted ongoing research and development initiatives, doctrinal contributions, and training activities designed to enhance the operational readiness of Allied forces in challenging mountainous environments.

MW COE representatives emphasized the Centre’s commitment to interoperability, innovation, and collaboration with Allied and partner nations. Special focus was given to how the Centre contributes to NATO’s broader adaptation efforts within a rapidly evolving security landscape.

The delegation showed particular interest in how MW COE’s work supports NATO’s collective resilience and contributes to improving the effectiveness of forces operating in extreme and high-altitude conditions.

A valuable exchange of Perspectives

The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss potential areas of future cooperation between the Netherlands and the MW COE. Ambassador Vrijland highlighted the Netherlands’ strong commitment to NATO and expressed appreciation for the Centre’s expert contributions to Allied capabilities.

MW COE leadership welcomed the opportunity to deepen cooperation and expressed gratitude for the Ambassador’s engagement and interest.