By Janet Ekstract
ISTANBUL- On Friday, in a joint press conference, with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, Turkish President Erdogan announced that the Turkish Parliament will begin ratification procedures to approve Finland’s NATO bid. In comments Erdogan made, he lauded Finland for the steps it took to reach this process.. He added that Finland will make NATO stronger and that both countries have had a strong relationship since they signed an agreement in 1924.
The Finnish President also commented: “I have a feeling that Finnish NATO membership is not complete without Sweden, we have so much common interest having been neighbors and having the Baltic Sea area on our shore. So, I would like to see in Vilnius that we will need the alliance of 32 members.”
Niinisto was in Ankara later on Thursday after visiting areas affected by the earthquake and had discussions with Erdogan and Turkish officials prior to Friday’s announcement of Turkiye’s approval for Finland’s NATO bid. In reference to Sweden’s bid, Erdogan mentioned that discussions are ongoing.
Erdogan further stated that Finland will be a valuable member of NATO and that it’s entrance into the military alliance will be an asset. Niinisto praised Erdogan’s diplomacy in furthering discussions “around the world,” saying that Erdogan was one of the few leaders who has initiated such talks to resolve international conflicts.
