“We will become a member of NATO even if Sweden’s approval is delayed.” Last Minute EUROPE, CURRENT, Russian news and events

Finnish President Sauli Niinistö said today that Finland and Sweden are on the path to NATO membership “hand in hand”.

On the other hand, Niinistö added that the decision to approve the applications of the two Scandinavian countries remains with Turkey.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year. However, Sweden faced unexpected objections from Turkey.

Accusing Stockholm of harboring people Turkey considers terrorists, Ankara has demanded their extradition as a move to give the green light to Sweden’s NATO membership.

“We go hand in hand with issues under our control,” Niinistö said. On the other hand, Niinistö added: “The verification is not in our hands.”

Speaking at a joint press conference with the prime ministers of Sweden and Norway at the Swedish government’s summer residence near Stockholm, Niinistö said that even if Sweden’s bid is delayed, Finland will continue on its path to join the alliance if Finland is approved.

The Finnish president also said he would sign the NATO membership bill, which is scheduled to be voted on February 28, if passed by lawmakers.

Once the parliaments of 30 NATO member countries approve the application, Finland will become a member, even if Sweden’s accession is delayed.

“If Turkey and Hungary approve Finland, we will become NATO members, as we demand,” Niinistö said.

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