Military

DATE=11/21/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=ROMANIA / NATO (L)

NUMBER=2-296696

BYLINE=DOUGLAS BAKSHIAN

DATELINE=BUCHAREST

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Romania has hailed the invitation to join NATO as a new beginning. From the country's President to people on the street there are expressions of high hopes as they see the country moving to rejoin the European family. Douglas Bakshian has more from Bucharest.

TEXT: "This is a big historic moment and a total break with the past", that is how Romanian President Ion Iliescu described the NATO invitation. In a statement, he said a big part of the ideals of the revolution of 1989 have been fulfilled.

On the streets of Bucharest people also hailed the NATO decision. Many say it opens the door to a new future.

/// FIRST PEOPLE ACT ///

(FIRST PERSON): It is very good for the country. It is very good for our people. And I think we need to start to go to Europe and to NATO.

(SECOND PERSON): I am happy, very very happy.

(THIRD PERSON): I think it is a wonderful for the Romanian nation because we need the protection. And I think we need a normal life, that is the problem. Because in the past, it was a big problem, life (relations) with other nations. We need that alliance.

(FOURTH PERSON): I feel very good. It is a very good chance for us. And I suppose this is (offers) a big future for Romania.

/// END ACT ///

But one person was more cautious.

/// SECOND PEOPLE ACT ///

(FIFTH PERSON): I think it is okay. We should join NATO, but not now. I do not think we are ready.

/// END ACT ///

Romania's President says the cost of economic, political, and other reforms has not been easy for the Romanian people to bear. But he says Romania's problems require hard work and solidarity if the country is to move forward toward Western type of life-style. And he says joining NATO is a key component of that effort. (SIGNED)

NEB/DB/AWP/RAE