Stockholm, 25 October 2023 (TDI): Sweden Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg engaged in a constructive meeting on October 24, 2023, in Stockholm. The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss Sweden’s final accession to NATO.
Stoltenberg expressed his appreciation for Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s decision to refer the accession protocol to the Grand National Assembly and hoped for quick approval by the Turkish Parliament.
He emphasized that this decision was in line with the agreement reached during the Vilnius Summit in July. Stoltenberg also appreciated Sweden for fulfilling its promises to Turkey including amending its main laws, updating regulations, strengthening counter-terrorism cooperation, and resuming weapon sales to Turkey.
Furthermore, Stoltenberg highlighted NATO’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts. The alliance had developed a new plan and appointed an Assistant Secretary-General to coordinate actions against terrorism.
He expressed satisfaction with Sweden’s effective resolution of Turkey’s security concerns, enabling Sweden’s NATO membership to progress, and looked forward to Sweden becoming a full member in the near future.
The officials also discussed the damage to important underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea and the ongoing efforts. Sweden along with other allies struggling to determine the cause. Stoltenberg mentioned that NATO was increasing its presence in the area.
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In addition, they addressed recent developments in the Middle East and emphasized the protection of civilians on both sides. They also welcomed initiatives to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
During his visit, Stoltenberg scheduled meetings with other Swedish officials including Defence Minister Pal Jonson, Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom, and the first Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Kenneth G Forslund.
