NATO can't slow down given complex threats: deputy head BUDAPEST, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- Given the complex threats of terrorism, weapons of mass destruction and cyber warfare, NATO cannot slow down, the organization's Deputy Secretary General Alexander Vershbow said here on Thursday. Vershbow, attending the 17th International NATO Conference, predicted that next year's NATO summit would mark the start of a new chapter in the organization's life. NATO will move forward with joint intelligence operations and missile defenses, and has to build a fleet of heavy lift helicopters, he said. Given the need for the tools to guarantee security, Vershbow pointed to the Smart Defense and Connected Forces Initiatives (CFI). According to the NATO website, Smart Defense aims to pool countries' buying power to equip the Alliance with shared capabilities, while CFI is focused on a series of measures in the field of education and training, exercises and technology. NATO, said Vershbow, has to continue to operate as a safety net and as a headquarters in maintaining security and in initiating closer cooperation among partner countries. It also has to assist countries in transition and to make Europe more secure. Hungarian Defense Minister Csaba Hende, also addressing the conference, called for closer unity to meet the new challenges. Speaker of Hungarian Parliament Laszlo Kover said it was imperative for NATO to remain a firm and versatile transatlantic connective force, based on mutual trust. Foreign Minister Janos Martonyi reminded conference participants that NATO's most important job is to guarantee peace. Cooperation among members needs to become closer prior to next year's NATO Summit, he said.