Croatia Summit - Europe's New South

In his keynote address, the Secretary General said NATO strongly believes that Euro-Atlantic integration is the only viable path for the countries of Southeast Europe to take. He said NATO's door remains open to those countries that meet NATO's performance based standards and are able to contribute to Euro-Atlantic security and stability.

The Secretary General encouraged the aspirant countries to continue the important reforms they have started and to continue informing their publics of the benefits and responsibilities of NATO membership. The opening session was hosted by Prime Minister Ivo Sanader of Croatia and attended by Heads of State and Government, Ministers and government officials of NATO and Partner countries.