Bush urges Senate to OK NATO expansion

WASHINGTON, July 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Thursday urged the Senate to approve changes to NATO allowing Croatia and Albania to join the treaty alliance.

Bush submitted the amendments adopted July 9 in Brussels for Senate approval, as required by the U.S. Constitution.

"NATO enlargement remains an historic success in advancing freedom, stability, and democracy in the Euro-Atlantic area," Bush said in his transmittal. "Albania and Croatia serve as two more examples of countries motivated by the prospect of NATO membership to advance significant and difficult political, economic, and military reforms.

"Their efforts and success demonstrate to other countries in the Balkans and beyond that NATO's door remains open to nations willing to shoulder the responsibilities of membership."

Bush said approving the protocols will advance "the cause of freedom and strengthening (of) NATO."