--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The most important thing is to build…" description: "\"The most important thing is to build local capacity, meaning train local forces, build the local defense institutions, defense ministries, command and ..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f3e/jens-stoltenberg-20145_country_the-most-important-thing-is-to-build-loc_1489625.png" --- # The most important thing is to build local capacity… ![“The most important thing is to build local capacity, meaning train local forces, build the local defense institutions, defense ministries, command and control, because, in the long run, it is expected that local forces are stabilizing their own country, fighting terrorism themselves, instead of…” quote by Jens Stoltenberg](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f3e/jens-stoltenberg-20145_country_the-most-important-thing-is-to-build-loc_1489625.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f3e/jens-stoltenberg-20145_country_the-most-important-thing-is-to-build-loc_1489625.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f3e/jens-stoltenberg-20145_country_the-most-important-thing-is-to-build-loc_1489625.png) > “The most important thing is to build local capacity, meaning train local forces, build the local defense institutions, defense ministries, command and control, because, in the long run, it is expected that local forces are stabilizing their own country, fighting terrorism themselves, instead of NATO deploying a large number of combat troops in combat operations.” [Jens Stoltenberg](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/jens-stoltenberg/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Developing local security forces ensures sustainable stability and reduces reliance on foreign troops. **In simple terms:** Train locals to protect their own country. Key Takeaway Invest in local defense capacity. Themes security sovereignty capacity building stability Mood strategic policy analytical Type political military When to use this quote - conflict zones - post‑war reconstruction - defense training programs - policy planning Key Concepts military strategy nation‑building regional politics Questions to Reflect On - How can international partners support capacity building? - What risks arise if local forces are underprepared? A Different Perspective Local forces may lack resources or expertise initially. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Country](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/country/) [Fighting terrorism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/fighting-terrorism/) [Fitness](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/fitness/) [Running](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/running/) [Terrorism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/terrorism/) [Train](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/train/) ## Related quotes > [Local defense will always be important. 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