The process of formal integration of Finland into the military wing of NATO ends

Finnish President Sauli Niinistö spoke at the signing ceremony of the joint declaration on the completion of the process of Finland’s accession to the military wing of NATO.

Stating that today’s ceremony marks the official completion of the integration process between the Finnish Defense Forces and NATO military structures, Niinistö said: “The process progressed very quickly. Our close cooperation and military interoperability with NATO for nearly 30 years has made this pace possible.” he used the phrase.

Emphasizing that Finland’s full integration into NATO will take time, Niinistö said: “As an Ally of Finland, we continue the process as a member of the alliance with relevant rights and obligations. With Finland, NATO has gained an ally that takes its obligations and commitments seriously.” he said.

Noting that Sweden’s NATO membership is extremely important to them, Niinistö said: “I have said it many times, but I repeat once again that our membership would not be complete without Sweden’s membership. For Finland, Swedish membership is of great importance, not only politically but also militarily.” he performed the assessment of it.

After the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, Finland and neighboring Sweden applied for NATO membership on May 18, 2022, ending their decades-long policy of military neutrality.

Finland became NATO’s 31st member on April 4, while Turkey and Hungary have yet to approve Sweden’s membership. AA