NATO is searching for new ways to settle the Karabakh conflict, North Atlantic Alliance European Command General Frank Boland stated when commenting on the outcomes of US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's visit to the South Caucasian region. In his words, the major priority of the Alliance in the region is the establishment of peace and stability. F. Boland also stated that the US and NATO are going to launch a new program of assistance to the former USSR republics. "We intend to increase the amount of aid to Azerbaijan within the frames of this program", the General noted. As for NATO exercise in Azerbaijan to be held this September, in his words, all the preparation works are nearly finished. "We hope Azerbaijan will completely fulfill the obligations it has undertaken," General Boland summed up.