Finland "Apply for NATO Membership Without Delay"... First Official Declaration

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Finland, a neutral country bordering Russia, has officially announced its intention to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). With Finland's NATO membership expected to be highly likely next month, strong opposition from Russia is also a concern.

According to the Associated Press on the 12th (local time), Finnish President Sauli Niinist? and Prime Minister Sanna Marin stated in a joint declaration, "Finland must apply for NATO membership without delay," adding, "NATO membership will strengthen Finland's security." The two leaders emphasized, "Finland will strengthen the alliance as a member of NATO," and "The time for a decision is approaching, and we want to make clear that we share the same view." They further added, "We hope that the administrative procedures for the NATO membership decision will be processed swiftly within the next few days."

With this, the Finnish government has officially declared its intention to join NATO. The possibility of Finland joining NATO has been raised continuously since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but this is the first time the Finnish government has made an official announcement. Finland had not officially stated its intention to apply for NATO membership due to concerns about opposition from neighboring Russia.

Along with Finland, Sweden is also actively seeking NATO membership, and NATO is expected to approve the membership of both countries next month. Despite Russia's opposition, NATO is anticipated to expand further.