IT’S TIME TO ENLARGE NATO

Next April, we will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which was formed in the wake of the Berlin Airlift to counter the threat of Soviet aggression in Europe. In 1949, NATO began with 12 nations wanting to create a more secure and stable Europe. Over the last 60 years, NATO has continually expanded from Spain to Germany to several former Soviet Republics. Today 26 countries are members of the alliance. And despite the end of the Cold War, NATO is just as important today. The threat of terrorism in Europe, and Russia’s recent invasion of Georgia, serves as a stark reminder of the need for collective security among Europe’s democracies. Nations such as Albania, Croatia, Macedonia, Ukraine, and Georgia crave the security guarantees that NATO membership offers. We have witnessed the benefits of NATO expansion and the vitality new members bring to the alliance. The most recent members of NATO have been some of the most powerful voices and strongest leaders in defense of Europe’s interests and willingness to confront emerging threats and challenges. Several months ago, the Czech Republic agreed to house a missile defense system radar, and last month, Poland signed an agreement to base the interceptor missiles needed to shoot down any ballistic missiles aimed at the Europe or the United States. Both of these countries joined NATO less than 10 years ago, but are also some of the strongest supporters of the War on Terror in Afghanistan and Iraq. In April, Croatia and Albania were invited to join NATO. Over the next couple weeks the U.S. Senate will consider ratifying the treaty for Albania and Croatia to join, but the work will not end there. NATO should extend an invitation to Macedonia and approve Membership Action Plans for Ukraine and Georgia so they can begin the process to attain membership. Nations that were once members of the Soviet Bloc or former Soviet Republics know all too well the threats that can emerge quickly and the need to be vigilant. They have provided leadership and demonstrated their commitment to the security and stability of Europe. Ever since it was created NATO has promoted peaceful relations among the alliance and its members. It is time we welcome our close friends into NATO.

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