Finland, Sweden for NATO joining together

Prime Minister Sanna Marin and her Swedish counterpart Ulf Kristersson on Friday underscored the importance of membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and reiterated that it is in the interests of Finland and Sweden, and of NATO too, that both countries’ membership processes proceed at the same pace.

The Premiers of the neighbouring countries met in Helsinki and discussed various issues including the countries’ future NATO membership, said a government press release.

“Finland and Sweden are closer today than ever before in practically all areas. Our common path to NATO is a historic example of our close relations,” Marin said.

They also discussed bilateral relations, support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s invasion, and other topical EU matters.

The prime ministers’ discussions emphasised the close relationship between their countries. This relationship plays a particularly important role in the current crises. Concrete areas where cooperation should be strengthened include developing security of supply and countering hybrid threats.

In their discussions, they stressed the importance of the international community’s continued strong support for Ukraine.

Ukraine is defending itself against Russia’s war of aggression in line with the principles of the UN Charter.

Russia’s disinformation and attempts to further escalate the war are irresponsible and very worrying.

The prime ministers exchanged views on major power relations and China’s role as a follow-up to the discussions held at the European Council last week.

They also highlighted the importance of new technologies and the strengths of the Finnish and Swedish business sectors in the field of network technologies.

Kristersson also met with President Sauli Niinistö during his visit to Helsinki.

This was Kristersson’s first bilateral visit abroad as Prime Minister. Prime Minister Marin’s first visit abroad was also to Sweden.