Nancy L. Johnson: “The expansion of NATO will foster continued economic growth and political stability in these regions. Moreover, the…”

“The expansion of NATO will foster continued economic growth and political stability in these regions. Moreover, the declining defense budgets of European and American forces necessitate expansion of the NATO security umbrella and the military cooperation it fosters. It is also my understanding that this bill authorizes the President to designate ``other European countries emerging from communist domination'' who might receive assistance. Title VI of H.R. 872 specifically designates the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania as eligible to be considered for future NATO membership. These countries will be required to continue to develop their democratic political structures, market economies, and military reforms while contributing to the security of the North Atlantic area. To date, the Baltic States have made significant progress in these areas. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania all have progressed toward democratic institutions by adopting Western-style constitutions and holding free and fair elections. In addition, these states have moved toward a market economy by following tight fiscal and monetary policies, creating strong currencies, and moving toward privatization of housing, small businesses, and industry. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania also constitute the Baltic Peacekeeping Battalion. This force is currently receiving assistance from the U.S. Military and should be operational for security and mutual defense by 1996.”