NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said, \"We continue to stand in strong solidarity with our ally Turkey. And we remain determined to protect the Alliance’s south-eastern border.\" Speaking at a monthly press conference, Rasmussen said, \"NATO’s position is clear (on Syria).  The chemical weapons attack that took place on August 21 around Damascus was appalling and inexcusable.\" Rasmussen stated that NATO was playing its part in the crisis, and added, \"We continue to stand in strong solidarity with our ally Turkey. And we remain determined to protect the Alliance’s south-eastern border.\" He emphasized that there was need to develop effective and modern capabilities as Europe needed effective and modern defence industries. \"This is a vital part of Europe’s ability to ensure its future security. So it is very timely that the European Council at the end of this year will address the issue. And I trust that it will make the defence industry in Europe stronger, more sustainable, and more streamlined.\"