The Hungarian Parliament has overwhelmingly ratified Sweden's application to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) during a session held on February 26, where 188 deputies voted in favor of this decision, with only six expressing opposition, DW reports.
Historic Milestone for Sweden
Following the parliamentary vote, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson hailed the moment as a "historic day" for his nation. In a statement on the social network X, Kristersson emphasized Sweden's readiness to contribute to Euro-Atlantic security as a NATO member. His sentiments echoed the sentiments of national pride and commitment to collective defense.
Today is a historic day. The parliaments of all NATO member states have now voted in favour of Swedish accession to NATO. Sweden stands ready to shoulder its responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security.
— Ulf Kristersson (@SwedishPM) February 26, 2024
NATO Secretary General's Endorsement
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed his endorsement of the Hungarian parliament's ratification of Sweden's NATO application. Stoltenberg welcomed the unanimous approval from all NATO member states, highlighting Sweden's impending role as the 32nd Ally within the alliance. He stressed that Sweden's membership will bolster the collective strength and security of NATO.
I welcome the Hungarian parliament’s vote to ratify #Sweden’s membership in NATO. Now that all Allies have approved, Sweden will become the 32nd #NATO Ally. Sweden’s membership will make us all stronger and safer.
— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) February 26, 2024
Hungary's Final Approval
Budapest's endorsement marks the culmination of Sweden's journey toward NATO membership. While Sweden, along with Finland, applied for NATO membership in 2022 amid heightened tensions fueled by Russia's military actions in Ukraine, hurdles remained. Turkey and Hungary were notable for their initial reluctance to support Sweden's bid. However, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's approval of Sweden's entry into NATO at the end of January 2024, Hungary stood as the final NATO member to ratify Sweden's application.
Strengthening European Defense
Sweden's forthcoming inclusion in NATO underscores the alliance's commitment to collective defense and regional stability in Europe. By formalizing Sweden's membership, NATO continues to fortify its capabilities and alliances in the face of evolving security challenges.
Currently, NATO comprises 31 member nations, collectively referred to as NATO Allies. These sovereign states convene within NATO to deliberate upon political and security matters and to reach decisions through unanimous agreement. Established on April 4, 1949, NATO originated from the collaboration of 12 European and North American countries. Subsequently, an additional 19 nations have acceded to NATO membership through nine separate rounds of enlargement, occurring in 1952, 1955, 1982, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2017, 2020, and 2023.
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