Defense officials said they were realistic enough to know that good performance would not guarantee NATO membership.

NATO membership in general is supported by 85.2% of the population.

However, a 2005 poll indicated that the public was strongly against NATO membership.

But it is provocative to talk about NATO membership prematurely.

"But at the same time, NATO membership must mean something."

How many of the nine other nations seeking NATO membership will be invited to join, and when?

At issue was whether the countries could afford the armed forces required for NATO membership.

NATO membership is important, but the conditions for statehood are critical.

The settlement could be part of the agreement for NATO membership.

He said that despite the end of the cold war, new countries continue to apply for NATO membership.