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Tsahkna: Sweden's accession into the Alliance marks the start of a new era

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

26.02.2024

Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna: Sweden's accession into the Alliance marks the start of a new era.

"I am truly happy that the NATO accession of our good friend and neighbour Sweden has been finally completed. The addition of such a capable Ally marks the beginning of a new era because it makes the Alliance even stronger and contributes to the increased security of the Euro-Atlantic area.

The fact that Estonia and Sweden are becoming Allies in addition to being partners allows us to cooperate more closely on defence and security, significantly increases the security of the Baltic Sea region and improves the security of supply of NATO's Eastern Flank. I am convinced that Sweden's accession enables us to face the shared challenges and threats in our region more efficiently.

The Alliance growing to 32 members this year, when Estonia celebrates the 20th anniversary of its accession and NATO marks 75 years since its foundation, is symbolic. It proves that over the decades, NATO has not lost its importance, and instead it has become stronger with each year. At the same time, it is guided by the principles that were agreed upon in 1949, and Estonia considers NATO's open door policy one of the most important of these principles. We are convinced that every European state must be free to choose their security arrangements and Sweden's accession is proof of the validity of this fundamental principle."