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Sweden becomes 32nd member of NATO

07.03.2024 22:30
Sweden has formally joined NATO, becoming the Western military alliance’s 32nd member in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 
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The Nordic country’s accession was sealed during a ceremony in Washington on Thursday, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson deposited his country's instrument of accession with the US government, represented by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

'Transatlantic security is stronger than ever': Joe Biden

US President Joe Biden said in a post on the X social media platform that he was "honored to welcome Sweden as NATO’s 32nd Ally."

Biden added: "75 years ago when NATO was established, President Truman said the Alliance, 'would create a shield against aggression and fear of aggression. That shield—and transatlantic security—is stronger than ever."

Sweden’s accession 'makes NATO stronger' and 'more secure'Stoltenberg

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said: “This is a historic day. Sweden will now take its rightful place at NATO’s table, with an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions."

Stoltenberg added, as cited by NATO on its website: "After over 200 years of non-alignment Sweden now enjoys the protection granted under Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allies’ freedom and security."

The NATO chief also said that "Sweden brings with it capable armed forces and a first-class defence industry."

Sweden’s accession "makes NATO stronger, Sweden safer and the whole Alliance more secure," according to Stoltenberg.

"Today’s accession demonstrates that NATO’s door remains open and that every nation has the right to choose its own path," the NATO chief declared.

Stoltenberg said in an X post that he looked forward to see Sweden's flag raised at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Monday.

Sweden’s flag will be raised alongside those of the other 31 Allies in a ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Monday, and simultaneously at NATO commands across Europe and North America, according to an announcement. 

'Congratulations to our new ally': Polish foreign ministry

Poland’s foreign ministry hailed Sweden’s entry to the alliance, saying that "cooperation with Sweden within NATO will further strengthen our common security." 

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said in a video message that "our unity in defending the freedom and security of the region becomes even stronger thanks to our partner joining the Alliance."

'Significant strengthening' of NATO's northern flank: Polish defence minister

Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz congratulated Sweden on becoming the alliance's 32nd member, saying on X that the country's membership marked "a significant strengthening of Allied defence capabilities" on NATO's northern flank.

'One more European country is now better protected from Russian evil': Ukraine’s Zelensky

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video message: “One more European country is now better protected from Russian evil. Sweden is joining NATO."

Zelensky added: "Everyone benefits when one country's security improves and that country can truly strengthen shared security. This rule has consistently worked throughout NATO's existence, and I am confident it will continue to work. Right now, in the midst of Russian aggression against everything that has kept Europe peaceful and united, everyone understands how critical it is to maintain alliances and partnerships, strengthen one's own security, and care for the security of one's neighbors."

The Ukrainian leader praised Sweden as "a strong ally and a trustworthy country."

"I congratulate everyone in Sweden and across the Euro-Atlantic space," Zelensky said in his message. "Ukraine has always been principled in its support for Sweden's NATO membership, and I am grateful to Sweden for its support for our country. I am confident that the day will come when Sweden will be able to congratulate Ukraine on joining the Alliance. We are always stronger when we are together."

(gs)

Source: IAR, PAP, Reuters, nato.int