Sweden and Finland applied last year to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but Sweden has faced unexpected objections from Turkey.
Finland and Sweden they go “hand in hand” towards her integration their in NATObut the decision to validation of requests it is up to them to Turkeysaid today Finnish president Sauli Niinisto.
Sweden and Finland applied last year to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but Sweden has faced unexpected objections from Turkey.
Ankara accuses Stockholm of harboring members of what it describes as terrorist groups and is seeking their extradition as a step to give the green light to Sweden’s NATO membership.
“We are going hand in hand in terms of things that are in our hands,” Niinisto said, but added: “The ratification is not in our hands.”
Niinisto was speaking at a joint press conference with the Swedish and Norwegian prime ministers.
Finland will proceed with joining the Alliance once approved, even if Sweden’s application is delayed, Niinisto said.
The Finnish president also stressed that he will sign the NATO application bill when it is approved by the Finnish Parliament, with a vote scheduled for February 28.
Once the parliaments of NATO’s 30 member states ratify the request, Finland will join, even if Sweden’s entry is delayed.
“If Turkey and Hungary ratify Finland, we will be, as we have requested, members of NATO,” the Finnish president emphasized.
Source :Skai
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