This is a cause for celebration not only in Prague, Budapest and Warsaw, but throughout the Alliance. For the tightening of transatlantic ties that we mark today inspired the vision of transatlantic leaders half a century ago. They wanted to help build a transatlantic community of prosperity and peace that would include all of Europe. But between the 1947 offering of the Marshall Plan and the forging of NATO two years later, it became evident that the reality of their times did not match the boldness of their vision. Now, due to bravery on both sides, that curtain has lifted, and links that should have been secured long ago are being soldered together.
Today is evidence of that.
Since the decision to invite new members was first made, President Clinton has argued that a larger NATO would make America safer, our Alliance stronger and Europe more peaceful and united. Today, we see that this is already the case. For NATO's new members bring with them many strengths. As young democracies, these countries have been steadfast in supporting the vision of an integrated Europe. Their troops are serving alongside NATO forces in Bosnia.