At NATO level, CPEC participates in the work of the Planning Boards and Committees as well as in other activities within its scope.
NATO is a defensive alliance that considers that an act of aggression towards one of its members is an offence to all. Its safety is based upon a discouraging strategy, that is, the consequences to a potential aggressor are supposed to be more grievous than any benefits that may be gained from it. For this purpose, it is necessary to convey to the opponent not only a strong will to reply to an act of aggression but also the credibility of its effectiveness.
That credibility may be hindered where there is an insufficient level of civil preparation. Countries with no strategic resources, with an insufficient civil protection, with communication systems unable to survive an attack, may contribute to the reduction of the ability to reply appropriately, taking into consideration that NATO acts by consensus.
Notwithstanding the fact that national responsibilities are at stake in these matters, NATO deemed to be worthwhile to create some Plannig Boards and Committes that pursues the desired or possible coordination among the allies.