Evaluating Turkey’s Backing of NATO: Sweden Commends Historic Progress

Sweden Hails Historic Step as Turkey Backs NATO Bid

A Historic Moment for Sweden

In a historic turn of events, Sweden, after a year-long struggle, is celebrating its acceptance into NATO. This marks a significant departure for the Nordic country, which for over two centuries embraced wartime neutrality. However, Sweden‘s application for membership in NATO last May reflected its desire to strengthen security and stability in northern Europe, especially in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Until Monday night, Turkey had been blocking Sweden‘s application, citing concerns over the country’s alleged provision of refuge to Kurdish militants. Turkey argued that Sweden needed to take a stronger stance against rebel groups like the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which they deem a terrorist organization. Both the European Union and the United States also classify the PKK as a terrorist group.

Turkey‘s ability to veto any new nations seeking NATO membership gave them considerable power in this matter. However, following crunch talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Sweden‘s right-wing Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emerged victorious, securing Turkey‘s backing.

Sweden‘s Efforts to Address Turkey‘s Concerns

Sweden‘s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who took office in October, made securing NATO membership a top foreign policy priority. Addressing Turkey‘s concerns about terrorism, Sweden introduced stricter anti-terrorism laws in June, criminalizing the provision of financial or logistical assistance to terrorist groups. Furthermore, a Swedish court recently sentenced a Kurdish man for attempting to finance terrorism, signaling Sweden‘s commitment to cracking down on terrorism.

In addition, Sweden has promised to actively support Turkey‘s efforts to join the European Union and to enhance economic cooperation between the two nations. Sweden has also resumed armed exports to Turkey, showing its willingness to contribute to additional security within the alliance.

The Turkish Perspective

Turkey‘s decision to end its opposition to Sweden‘s NATO membership is also a significant win for them. Besides addressing Ankara’s security concerns, Sweden‘s support for Turkey‘s EU aspirations and increased economic cooperation offer President Erdogan a significant platform on the global political stage.

There are questions about what kind of assurances may have been made behind closed doors during negotiations. The United States, for example, has agreed to engage in fresh talks with Turkey regarding the purchase of F-16 fighter jets now that Turkey has ended its opposition to Sweden‘s NATO bid.

Public Opinion in Sweden

Public support for Sweden‘s NATO application grew substantially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, according to a survey conducted by pollster Novus in May, 38% of Swedes remain either against or unsure about Sweden joining NATO.

Critics of Sweden‘s NATO membership are concerned about the country’s ideological shift and the potential impact on its global image as a longstanding international mediator. There are also reservations about negotiating with Turkey given its questionable human rights record.

However, for NATO supporters, Sweden‘s membership is seen as essential, as it provides additional security guarantees during a time of political volatility in Europe. Furthermore, Sweden‘s inclusion in NATO will also offer the alliance additional resources. Although Sweden may not possess a large military, it has reintroduced conscription and increased defense spending in recent years, with plans to reach a military budget of 2% of Sweden‘s GDP by 2026.

Conclusion

Sweden‘s acceptance into NATO highlights the evolving dynamics in Europe and the desire for greater security and stability in the region. The development also reflects Turkey‘s growing influence on the international stage.

While Sweden‘s NATO membership is a significant achievement for Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, it is crucial for the government to address the concerns of those in the country who remain opposed or unsure about Sweden joining NATO. Additionally, Sweden must be vigilant in managing its relationship with Turkey and ensuring that their shared goals align with Sweden‘s commitment to human rights and global mediation.

Overall, Sweden‘s NATO membership offers the potential for increased security and resources for the alliance, while also signaling a significant shift in Sweden‘s traditional stance of neutrality.