NATO Deputy Secretary General Gunter Altenburg praised the political will in Bulgaria to destroy SS-23 missiles at a meeting with Bulgaria’s President Parvanov. Bulgaria must destroy its SS-23 missiles by October 30, 2002, according to a special declaration, approved by Parliament on December 19. The two high-ranking officials discussed Bulgaria’s readiness to join NATO. After the meeting, Altenburg expressed his satisfaction with the fact that the presidential institution is committed to achieving the strategic goal of NATO membership. Bulgaria’s President Parvanov was leader of Bulgaria’s Socialist Party till his inauguration as President in January. In spite of that since his election, he has constantly vowed his support for Bulgaria’s strategic goals – EU and NATO membership. NATO team, led by Altenburg arrived in Bulgaria on March 11 to conduct consultations. On the basis of the conclusions of the team special report on Bulgaria’s readiness to join NATO will be prepared by April. Upon leaving, Altenburg said that NATO demand continuity and further army reforms from Bulgaria on its way towards NATO membership.