London plans to sign a similar agreement with Finland in the coming hours.
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson signed an agreement on mutual security guarantees with Sweden . Britain also plans to sign a similar agreement with Finland. This was reported by The Guardian.
Sweden and Finland are not currently members of NATO, but both countries are planning to apply for membership. In addition, the countries are already members of the Joint Expeditionary Force, a free military alliance created by Britain, dominated by the Nordic and Baltic countries.
“The declarations will lead to step-by-step changes in defense and security cooperation between Britain and each country. Strengthen intelligence sharing, accelerate joint military training, exercises and deployments, and strengthen security in all three countries and in Northern Europe, “Johnson said.”
threats faced by all three countries. In addition, London will work with Sweden and Finland to address new geopolitical challenges such as hybrid and cyber threats.
“We are steadfast and unequivocal in our support for both Sweden and Finland, and the signing of these declarations of security is a symbol of eternal confidence between our peoples. This is not a short-term solution, but a long-term commitment to strengthening military ties and global stability, as well as strengthening Europe's defense capabilities for future generations, “Johnson said.
Read also: NATO is ready to fast-track Sweden and Finland
Earlier, it was reported that Finland and Sweden plan to apply for NATO membership in May . Thus, both countries have decided to speed up the accession process without waiting for the Alliance's summit in late June.
However, Russia has threatened Sweden and Finland with “consequences” if it joins NATO. Moscow is nervous about the prospect of enlargement of the Alliance. But will Russia open a “second front” in the Baltic Sea? This is stated in the article Alina Gritsenko “Sweden on the way to NATO: what will Russia respond?”.
