In 1999, three central European states that had been behind the “iron curtain” for half a century were accepted into the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation: Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary. That decision implied the beginning of the end of the cold war division of Europe.

That enlargement and the next one in 2004 have significantly contributed to the creation of a zone of stability, peace and security in Europe. Enlarged by the inclusion of new member states, adapted to the challenges of the 21st century, Nato strengthens democracy in Europe. For many new members it is also a bridge to the European Union.