Sweden joins NATO

After 30 years of close partnership with NATO, Sweden joined the Alliance on March 7, 2024. A historic day for the nation. 

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  Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (center) and Foreign Minister Tobias Billström during the NATO ratification ceremony at the Department of State in Washington, D.C., as Sweden formally joins the North Atlantic alliance, on March 7, 2024. (Official State Department Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

• Sweden became NATO’s newest member on Thursday (7 March 2024), upon depositing its instrument of accession to the North Atlantic Treaty with the Government of the United States in Washington DC. US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken offered warmest congratulations on Sweden’s completion of its final step to becoming the 32nd NATO Ally. According to the Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Secretary and Prime Minister Kristersson discussed how Sweden can immediately contribute to Alliance priorities and preparations for the NATO summit in Washington in July. They also discussed support for Ukraine and deepening defense and economic cooperation between the United States and Sweden.

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  Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristerssonm left and Foreign Minister Tobias Billström during the NATO ratification ceremony at the Department of State in Washington, D.C., as Sweden formally joins the North Atlantic alliance, on March 7, 2024. (Official State Department Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

• With Sweden’s accession, NATO now counts 32 countries among its members.NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: “This is a historic day. Sweden will now take its rightful place at NATO’s table, with an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions. After over 200 years of non-alignment Sweden now enjoys the protection granted under Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allies’ freedom and security. Sweden brings with it capable armed forces and a first-class defence industry.  Sweden’s accession makes NATO stronger, Sweden safer and the whole Alliance more secure.