Conversion of military sites in South Eastern Europe

The challenge of site redevelopment is difficult and even greater in South Eastern Europe because of fundamental economic and political restructuring that is going on in countries from this region. However, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia have already expressed an interest in these programmes. For instance, Romania has identified four bases to serve as pilot projects. One of them is the ex-Air Force Base, Fundulea, located near Bucharest, which would be transformed into a rehabilitation centre for "street children" suffering from drug addiction. Another is an ex-Air Force facility, Mangalia, near the Black Sea, which would be converted into a multifunctional centre for offices, sport facilities, tourist services, housing etc. Work with Bulgaria has already started, while work with Croatia will commence as planning matures; the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia is considering cooperation in this field.

The process is well underway and despite the different problems that arise from site to site and from country to country, a great deal will be learnt through the exchange of ideas and experiences. In addition, NATO can call on a broad community of experts to provide assistance and is coordinating financial support through the Stability Pact. So far, the Council of Europe Development Bank, the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development have expressed an interest in cooperating with NATO.