Patience required for joining NATO

  • 2012-09-26

TALLINN - Estonian Defense Minister Urmas Reinsalu said during his lecture, delivered at the National Defense Academy of Georgia on Sept. 25, that he supports the country’s aspirations to join the Alliance, but that Georgia needs to be patient, as joining is a long road to travel, the Defense Ministry's statement said.

According to Reinsalu's estimates, Georgia's preparations are progressing well.

As an example, he cited the development of the national defense strategy and the contribution to the operation in Afghanistan, a clear signal to NATO that the aspiring member country means business.

In his view, Estonia's experience in joining NATO is highlighted by perseverance and single-mindedness, which finally resulted in the breakthrough.