WITH world leaders gathered in Newport this week for the NATO summit Pembrokeshire’s own MP Stephen Crabb has been taking on his role as Secretary of State for Wales with gusto.

Mr Crabb was on hand to welcome American President Barack Obama – the first time a serving US President has visited Wales – as well as other leaders such as Angela Merkel, and UK Prime Minister David Cameron.

Mr Crabb and the First Minister, Carwyn Jones, also joined the Prince of Wales at a summit reception at the Celtic Manor, Newport, where heads of state mingled with local community leaders, military and business leaders and community award winners.

In his opening speech, Mr Cameron welcomed leaders to Newport during a "solemn moment for our alliance".

He said: "As Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, I am incredibly proud to have this opportunity to showcase all that Wales has to offer.

"The stunning countryside here behind us. The brilliance of Welsh industry and, above all, the warm welcome of the Welsh people.

"The pictures around you are of the Brecon Beacons – which are not only beautiful, but explain why the British military are so tough and professional. They train here on a regular basis.

"This is also the right place to discuss defence. Wales has more castles, medieval castles, per head than anywhere else in the world. More than 640 of them. I hope you get to visit them while you are in Wales.

"Nato is the anchor of our security, and over the next two days we must reinvigorate and refocus this Alliance to tackle new threats and to ensure it continues to foster stability around the world."

The First Minister said: “The US President’s visit to Wales to attend the Nato summit in Newport is an historic occasion as it marks the first time that a serving US President has made an official visit to Wales.”

Our sister newspaper the South Wales Argus, based in Newport, is covering the summit as it happens. For coverage go to: www.southwalesargus.co.uk