We look forward to a strong message at the upcoming NATO Summit in Chicago to aspirant countries that the Alliance remains committed to its 'open door policy' and the Euro-Atlantic integration of Southeast Europe, reads the joint statement of defense ministers of Adriatic Charter (Macedonia, Albania, Croatia, Bosnia&Herzegovina, and Montenegro) and the United States, produced at conference "Common Challenges and Joint Solutions", held Thursday in Skopje.

The statement underlines the important role of Albania, Croatia and the United Sates in providing continuous support for the rest of the Adriatic Charter countries in their aspirations to become full-fledged NATO members.

"In this context we reaffirm our support to the full-fledged membership of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO as soon as possible", reads the statement.

All countries from the region are encouraged to continue implementing their defense reforms. Moreover, countries of the region are recognized for enhancing democracy, strengthening democratic institutions, fostering sustained development and respecting human rights.

Minister reviewed the new projects in the spirit of the 'smart defense' initiatives.

"We agreed to take the next steps toward realization of NATO's Multinational Balkan Regional Approach to Air Defense (BRAAD) Initiative, consider working together on other regional joint projects such as the establishment of a Regional Medical Task Force, network connectivity of all Regional Training Centers, as well as expanding cooperation in field of civil emergencies", reads the statement.