WORLD

Finland And Sweden Formally Apply To Join NATO Amid Russia’s Invasion Of Ukraine

Mumbai: Amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden on Wednesday formally applied to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Sweden and Finland were both neutral during the Cold War, and their decision to join NATO in the decades following Russia’s February 24 invasion of Nordic territory in widespread public opinion is one of the most significant changes in Europe’s security architecture. reflects change.

“This is a historic moment, which we must seize,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said at a short ceremony in which the Swedish and Finnish ambassadors to the alliance handed over their application letters, each in a white folder embossed with their national flag.

“I warmly welcome requests from Finland and Sweden to join NATO. You are our closest partners, and your membership in NATO will enhance our shared security,” Stoltenberg said.

The alliance believes that the accession of Finland and Sweden will give it considerable strength in the Baltic Sea.

Diplomats say it could take up to a year for all 30 affiliated parliaments to approve.

Turkey has surprised its allies in recent days by saying it objected to Finnish and Swedish membership. Stoltenberg said on Wednesday that he thought the issues could be resolved.

“We are determined to work through all issues and reach rapid conclusions,” Stoltenberg said, noting strong support from all other allies.

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