In a joint statement, the leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania supported the “historic decision” of Finland and Sweden to join NATO.
“Finland and Sweden share the same values that unite NATO allies and share our commitment to the principles that underpin Euro-Atlantic security. Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership will strengthen our collective security and strengthen our alliance.” – The statement came from the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kaia Kalas, the Prime Minister of Latvia, Artur Krishyan, and the Prime Minister of Lithuania, Ingrida Shimonite.
“The Baltic states, together with Finland and Sweden, share responsibility for peaceful, secure and prosperous Scandinavian and Baltic regions,” they said.
The leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania say that after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the role of NATO as a defence alliance seeking peace, security and stability throughout the Euro-Atlantic countries has become even more important.
“We look forward to working with Finland and Sweden within the alliance to achieve these goals.”
The Ambassadors of Finland and Sweden to NATO presented applications for NATO membership to the Secretary-General of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg.
In order for countries to join NATO, the parliaments of all Alliance countries must approve their membership after making their formal application. This may last from 4 months to 1 year, the duration of which depends on the bureaucratic processes in each country.
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