Endorsement of the Consortium in the Summit Communiqué, which was issued at the conclusion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Summit in Washington, D.C. on 24th April 1999

We, the Heads of State and Government of the member countries of the North Atlantic Alliance, have gathered in Washington to celebrate the 50th anniversary of NATO and to set forth our vision of the Alliance of the 21st century.The North Atlantic Alliance, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law, remains the basis of our collective defence; it embodies the transatlantic link that binds North America and Europe in a unique defence and security partnership.2. Fifty years ago, the North Atlantic Alliance was founded in troubled and uncertain times.It has withstood the test of five decades and allowed the citizens of Allied countries to enjoy an unprecedented period of peace, freedom and prosperity.Here in Washington, we have paid tribute to the achievements of the past and we have shaped a new Alliance to meet the challenges of the future.This new Alliance will be larger, more capable and more flexible, committed to collective defence and able to undertake new missions including contributing to effective conflict prevention and engaging actively in crisis management, including crisis response operations.The Alliance will work with other nations and organisations to advance security, prosperity and democracy throughout the Euro-Atlantic region.The presence today of three new Allies-the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland-demonstrates that we have overcome the division of Europe.3. The Alliance takes the opportunity of this 50th anniversary to recognise and express its heartfelt appreciation for the commitment, sacrifice, resolve and loyalty of the servicemen and women of all Allies to the cause of freedom.The Alliance salutes these active and reserve forces' essential contributions, which for 50 years have guaranteed freedom and safeguarded trans-Atlantic security.Our nations and our Alliance are in their debt and offer them profound thanks.