Sweden can still become a member of the Alliance by July

Jens Stoltenberg believes that Sweden can still become a NATO member by the summer, although its application has not been ratified by the two countries.

He said this in an interview with Politico.

Stoltenberg insists that Sweden can still get Turkey's approval after the May elections in that country.

"My goal remains the same: after the Turkish elections, but before the Vilnius summit, we can also get Sweden's ratification," Stoltenberg said, referring to the annual summit of NATO leaders to be held on July 11.

Stoltenberg emphasized that the decision ultimately depends on Turkey. Hungary has also not yet ratified the Swedish application, but Turkey is seen as the main obstacle.

"We are talking about sovereign national parliaments, and of course, I cannot give any guarantees on their behalf," he said.

Stoltenberg emphasized that, in his opinion, Stockholm has done everything possible to allay Ankara's concerns.

"Sweden has fulfilled its obligations under the agreed trilateral memorandum. There were difficult negotiations, but Sweden has proven that they are strengthening cooperation with Turkey, fighting terrorism, exchanging intelligence and information, and there are no restrictions on arms exports from Sweden to Turkey," he added.

Author - Olena Madiak, 31/03/2023