Nato allies have been looking at various missile-defence options for some time. Nato itself is developing protections for our deployed troops.

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery is a threat to both the Nato allies and Russia.

Actually I can't imagine Nato troops on the ground and I think it's also important to send that very clear message to the UN and other organisations right now so that appropriate plans can be in place in due time and the Gaddafi regime can collapse soon.

I know very well that Berlin attaches great importance to NATO and solidarity, in terms of sharing the burden. For this reason, I feel confident that the German government will take the right decision, one that serves both German and NATO interests.

The time for grand speeches is over. We must now put our words into action. Now is the time for us to fulfil our promises.

We are not leaving Brussels without a result, and I will let it take the time it needs...If not, we will not be able to conclude the accession talks in December.