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Bush says NATO open to all in E. Europe

Other News Materials 5 April 2008 14:47 (UTC +04:00)

(AP) - President Bush says NATO membership is open to all countries in eastern Europe, including former Soviet states and satellites despite fierce Russian objections.

Speaking in Croatia, which was invited to join NATO just this week, the president told a large crowd gathered in an outdoor square that alliance membership offers the countries of the region lasting protection from outside threats to their freedom.

The speech came just hours before Bush travels to Russia for his final official meeting with outgoing President Vladimir Putin, who is deeply suspicious of NATO's intentions in Russia's backyard.

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