Hungary’s parliament has approved Sweden’s bid to join NATO, clearing the way for the Nordic nation’s accession to the alliance after nearly two years of intense negotiations.
The decision also dealt a geopolitical blow to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the parliament press office said.
Getting approval from the Hungarian parliament was the final hurdle for Stockholm joining NATO. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson visited Budapest on Friday to discuss defense and security cooperation with his Hungarian counterpart, Viktor Orban.
According to CNN, the two sides appeared to reconcile, agreeing on a deal that would see Hungary acquire four new Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets.
Of the 194 members of parliament who voted, just six rejected Sweden’s accession.
Kristersson said on X shortly after the vote: “Today is a historic day. On X shortly after the vote. “Sweden stands ready to shoulder its responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security.”
Sweden will formally join the alliance after it submits its instrument of accession with the United States government, which is the depository of the North Atlantic Treaty. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg confirmed that Sweden will join the alliance now that all allies have approved Sweden’s bid to join.
“Sweden’s membership will make us all stronger and safer,” he said.
With Sweden’s accession, NATO will count 32 countries among its members, an ironic twist given that Russia launched its war against Ukraine in part due to the alliance’s growth in Eastern Europe along Russia’s border.
Last year, Finland became the 31st NATO member, adding some 1,300 kilometers (830 miles) to the alliance’s frontier with Russia.
As NATO states, Finland and Sweden will enjoy the protection granted under Article 5 of the treaty that established the alliance – which states that an attack on one member is considered an attack against all.
Sahara Reporters