By joining NATO, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia strengthened their own security as well that of NATO and the entire Euro-Atlantic region. All seven contribute greatly in political and operational terms to the work that NATO does. Their accession marked a decisive step towards a Europe that is whole, free and at peace.
This is what the Alliance has always aspired to achieve. And while this process is ongoing, we are keeping NATO's door open to continue playing our part in helping make that vision a reality.