Sweden officially joins NATO

Sweden became NATO’s newest member on 7 March, upon depositing its instrument of accession to the North Atlantic Treaty with the Government of the United States in Washington DC.

With the addition of Sweden, NATO now counts 32 countries among its members.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said this was a "historic day" for the military alliance.

“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," he said.
 
"After over 200 years of non-alignment, Sweden now enjoys the protection granted under Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allies’ freedom and security," he added.

"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. Today’s accession demonstrates that NATO’s door remains open and that every nation has the right to choose its own path.”

Sweden’s flag will be raised alongside those of the other 31 Allies in a ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels on 11 March and simultaneously at NATO commands across Europe and North America.