Baltic is a vulnerable and important region for international security. Through integration of the Baltic states into NATO, which began at 2002 Prague Summit, the Alliance wouldget energetic and reliable allies. Integration of Baltic States into NATO would have apositive impact on the regional stability. It would also drastically decrease the practical value of Russia's plans to restore its control over the region of Eastern and Central Europe, would weaken Russia's pressure on other post-Soviet states. Expansion of NATO would also promote westernization of Russia.