In a significant diplomatic development, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has agreed to engage in talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban concerning Sweden’s NATO bid. The confirmation came through a letter published by Swedish public television, where Kristersson expressed his acceptance of the invitation to meet in Budapest at a mutually convenient time.
The letter emphasized that the completion of the ratification process for Sweden’s NATO membership in the Hungarian parliament would establish a robust foundation for advancing bilateral relations and strengthening mutual understanding and trust. Kristersson highlighted the potential benefits of a more intensive dialogue between the two countries and noted the upcoming opportunity for discussions in Brussels on February 1 during a meeting of the European Council.
The announcement follows Turkey’s parliamentary approval of Sweden’s NATO membership, bringing Sweden a step closer to joining the alliance. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to formalize the approval in the coming days.
While Orban expressed support for Sweden’s NATO membership, Hungary’s parliamentary speaker, Laszlo Kover, downplayed the urgency in backing Sweden’s bid. Kover stated that he does not sense any particular urgency and does not perceive an extraordinary situation.
Finland’s accession to NATO in April expanded the alliance’s borders, doubling its length along Russia. The move also bolstered the defense capabilities of three Baltic countries that joined NATO after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Sweden and Finland, traditionally non-aligned in military matters, shifted their stance due to geopolitical changes, particularly Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Both Orban and Erdogan maintain relatively amicable relations with Russia, adding an intriguing dimension to the NATO discussions. As the diplomatic discourse unfolds, the international community watches closely for the outcome of these crucial talks between Sweden and Hungary.
