Message of support from Finland and Sweden to Turkey
Haavisto spoke at a press conference in Espoo, Finland, after meeting Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström.
Conveying his condolences for the earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, Haavisto stated that Finland showed a quick reaction in the process and sent its experts to Turkey.
Stating that they are ready to share the aid material obtained from Haavisto, the Red Cross and other sources, “We are aware that there are very critical hours. Many people can still be saved. We understand that those in the region definitely need support in winter conditions. In the long run, there will be a great need for restructuring in both Turkey and Syria. It is important that we also participate in this process.”
Noting that Finland’s NATO application is also one of the topics discussed today, Haavisto said: “We have information that Hungary will start the parliamentary approval process in February, possibly at the end of the month, but we are waiting for this process. . ” he used the phrase.
Haavisto stressed that NATO would be strengthened if they joined NATO with Sweden, saying that the two countries started the membership process together and wanted to complete it.
Swedish Foreign Minister Billström expressed his sadness over the earthquakes in Turkey and stressed that they were ready to support.
Stating that Finland and Sweden share a geographical, economic, cultural and historical path, Billström stated that they also applied for NATO membership together.
Billström said: “We applied together and our goal is to become members together as soon as possible. Of course, Sweden wants to be an active partner in the collective defense of NATO. We stand ready to contribute to NATO’s defense and deterrence activities,” he said.
Asked what to do if Finland’s NATO membership is ratified independently of Sweden, Billström said: “I don’t want to speculate on this. We believe that with NATO membership of both countries, the Baltic Sea will be a much safer place for all the people who live here. We believe that Sweden has taken concrete steps regarding each item of the memorandum signed between Sweden, Finland and Turkey. We continue to implement the agreement and deepen cooperation between government agencies. Furthermore, as an ally, we see no reason why Turkey should not approve our participation.” (AA)