In a historic milestone, Sweden formally acceded to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Thursday, March 7, 2024, by depositing its instrument of accession with the United States government in Washington, D.C. With this action, NATO now comprises 32 member countries.
NATO Secretary General’s Statement
Jens Stoltenberg hailed Sweden’s accession as a momentous occasion, stating:
“This is a historic day. Sweden will now take its rightful place at NATO’s table, with an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions. After over 200 years of non-alignment, Sweden now enjoys the protection granted under Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allies’ freedom and security.”
Stoltenberg emphasized that Sweden’s capable armed forces and first-class defense industry will make NATO stronger, while simultaneously enhancing Sweden’s safety and the overall security of the Alliance.
Symbolic Ceremony at NATO Headquarters
To formally welcome Sweden into the fold, a ceremony will be held at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Monday, March 11, 2024. During this event, Sweden’s flag will be raised alongside those of the other 31 Allies, symbolizing the nation’s new status as a full member. Simultaneously, similar flag-raising ceremonies will take place at NATO commands across Europe and North America.
NEWSROOM IN notes:
➤Sweden, alongside Finland, submitted their applications to join NATO in 2022.
➤Initially, both Hungary and Turkey blocked the process.
➤While Turkey lifted its objections in January 2024, Hungary remained the sole outstanding hurdle.
➤With Hungary’s approval, Sweden has finally completed the formal requirements for joining NATO.
