; Whereas NATO continues to support an open-door membership policy of admitting any European country that can contribute to the promotion and protection of freedom, democracy, stability, and peace throughout Europe; Whereas NATO continues to enhance the security of Europe and the world by strengthening partnerships with countries around the world; and Whereas Congress recognizes its commitment to the alliance by actively participating in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and fulfilling its statutory commitment to the assembly in order to facilitate legislative awareness and understanding of critical security issues affecting the alliance: Now, therefore, be it