Statement from Sweden to Turkey: We will fulfill our commitments
Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström stated that his country will fulfill its commitments regarding counter-terrorism as outlined in the Trilateral Memorandum. Billström also noted that they have been in communication following Turkey's approval of Sweden's NATO accession.
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Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström answered questions following a press conference held at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs International Press Centre in Stockholm.
Responding to a question regarding Sweden's fight against terrorist organizations within the framework of the NATO agreement, Billström recalled that as a result of the agreement reached at the NATO summit in Vilnius, Sweden had agreed to sign a security pact with Turkey.
Billström said, "The Turkish parliament has approved Sweden's NATO accession. We will, of course, fulfill our commitments. We are already in communication."
Stating that he had spoken with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Billström added, "We are ready to move forward on the security agreement by organizing the first meeting of the relevant body. We will also maintain the permanent joint mechanism established between Sweden, Finland, and Turkey at the NATO summit in Madrid. Since this mechanism is permanent, it will remain robust."
Emphasizing that he looks forward to this cooperation, Billström stated, "I believe that such close cooperation in the fight against terrorism will be beneficial for both Turkey and Sweden in the future."
Regarding a question about the US sale of F-16s to Turkey, Billström commented, "Of course, everything that strengthens the NATO alliance is welcomed. The modernization of the Turkish Air Force is certainly a step in that direction."
"WE EXPECT THE HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT TO DO THE SAME"
Touching upon talks with Hungary, which has not yet approved Sweden's NATO membership, Billström reminded that the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) had approved Sweden's accession to NATO. Billström said, "We expect the Hungarian parliament to do the same."
Stating that they feel the support of all member states that have taken these steps, including Turkey, Billström expressed that they were "welcomed as a new member of the organization."
Minister Billström added, "There has been an exchange of letters between Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and (Hungarian) Prime Minister Orban; we will see what the outcome will be regarding this matter."