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Finnish FM clarifies Sweden NATO comments

24 January 2023 14:28 (UTC +04:00)

Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto was forced to clarify his comments on Tuesday after he told that Finland might be forced to think about joining the Nato military alliance without long-time ally Sweden, thanks to opposition from Turkiye, APA reports citing Yle.

When asked on Yle's breakfast television show whether Finland should still proceed at the same pace as Sweden, Haavisto said Finland should be able to re-think that strategy if necessary.

"Of course, from the perspective of both countries' security, it is absolutely the number one option," said Haavisto.

"But we have to be ready to re-evaluate the situation. Has something happened that would in the long run prevent Sweden's application from progressing? Now it is too early to take a view on that."

Haavisto added, however, that joining together remains the preferred option and that it was too early to take a firm view on the issue.

Apparently reacting to Haavisto's comments, Finland's Defence Minister Mikko Savola (Cen) said on Twitter that it was to Nato's, Finland's, and Sweden's advantage if the two Nordics become members at the same time.

"It's important to keep cool heads now," wrote Savola. "We have sought Nato membership at the same time as Sweden."

Haavisto's comments also prompted some questions on the other side of the Gulf of Bothnia, with Foreign Minister Tobias Billström saying that he would like further information.

Haavisto then held a press conference in parliament to clarify his views. He said that the goal remained the same, and he had discussed it with both Billström and Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

"We are trying to progress this together," said Haavisto.

"He [Stoltenberg] still emphasizes that Nato's own priority is that Finland and Sweden would become Nato members at the same time."

Haavisto was also asked if there was a particular deadline for ratification. He replied that the Nato summit in July was important for the organization's own 'open doors' policy.