Sweden set to become Nato member after Hungary ratifies bid

NEW DELHI: Hungary’s parliament on Monday approved Sweden‘s Nato bid, marking a significant step towards the expansion of the military alliance in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The ratification passed with 188 votes in favor, and six against, removing the last hurdle for Sweden’s accession solidifying its place within the alliance.
Swedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson said on Monday that it was a “historic day,” after Hungary’s parliament ratified Sweden’s Nato bid, clearing the final obstacle for the Nordic country to join the military alliance.
“Today is a historic day. The parliaments of all Nato member states have now voted in favour of Swedish accession to Nato. Sweden stands ready to shoulder its responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security,” Kristersson said in a statement to X.

Nato’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed on Monday the Hungarian parliament’s vote.
Taking to X he said, “I welcome the Hungarian parliament’s vote to ratify Sweden’s membership in Nato. Now that all Allies have approved, Sweden will become the 32nd Nato Ally. Sweden’s membership will make us all stronger and safer..”

Hungary was the last among the 31 members of the alliance to clear the way for Sweden to join the Western defence alliance as war rages in Ukraine.