17 June 2004

Aspirant countries present joint strategy for NATO membership Multimedia 17/06/2004 - NATO High resolution photos of the visit to NATO of the Foreign Ministers of Albania, Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) The Foreign Ministers of Albania, Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) came to NATO Headquarters on 17 June to present a joint strategy for NATO membership. The three countries are aspiring to NATO membership and part of NATO’s Membership Action Plan. In a joint address to the North Atlantic Council, the three Foreign Ministers declared that they intend to support each other’s candidacy. A historic first They will also work together to develop joint capabilities that they could contribute to Alliance missions, they said. The visit was an historic first, as it is the first time that countries aspiring to NATO membership have formally agreed to work together. “The decisions on NATO membership are always made on an individual basis, based on the country’s ability to meet the obligations and commitments of possible future membership,” said NATO Spokesman James Appathurai, “But this initiative is very much welcome, and we look forward to the implementation of the initiatives presented by the Ministers.” Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.