US President Joe Biden signed the ratification of US support for Sweden and Finland’s accession to NATO

Biden also praised Finland and Sweden, saying both have “strong democratic institutions.

Washington:

President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the U.S. ratification of Finland and Sweden’s bids to join NATO, expanding the Western alliance in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine one step closer. .

Mr. Biden said the Nordic countries would become a “strong, reliable, and highly capable new ally” by making a “sacred commitment” to mutual defense in the transatlantic alliance. America leads.

Earlier this month, the Senate voted 95-1 in favor of the Nordic nations’ accession, making the United States the 23rd out of 30 NATO nations to give formal endorsement. Unanimous support is required for new members.

Biden, who made the restoration of traditional American alliances a cornerstone of his administration after Donald Trump’s move to strengthen ties around the world, praised NATO as “the cornerstone of American security.” “.

“The United States is committed to the transatlantic alliance.”

Biden also praised Finland and Sweden, saying that both have “strong democratic institutions, strong militaries and strong and transparent economies” that will now support NATO.

President Vladimir Putin’s Russia “disrupted peace and security in Europe” by invading Ukraine, Biden said. “Putin thinks he can divide us…. Instead, he’s getting exactly what he doesn’t want.”

Before the signing ceremony, Biden spoke by phone with Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, the White House said.

“President Biden congratulated them on the speedy ratification of their NATO accession protocols by the United States Senate, and welcomed Finland and Sweden to taking another step toward becoming NATO Allies,” said Mr. White said.

While the process went smoothly, “President Biden affirmed that the United States will work with Finland and Sweden to remain vigilant against any threat to our common security, and at the same time deter and confront aggression or threat of aggression,” the statement said.

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