Statements of support from Finland and Sweden to Türkiye
Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto and Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström expressed their sadness due to the earthquakes in Kahramanmaras that affected 10 provinces. The two ministers stressed that they stand by Türkiye and Syria.
Condolence messages and aids are coming from the world for the two earthquakes in a row that Türkiye has been through. Finnish Foreign Minister Haavisto spoke at the press conference held in Espoo, Finland, after meeting with Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström.
Conveying his condolences due to the earthquakes in Kahramanmaras, Haavisto stated that Finland showed a quick reaction in the process and sent their experts to Türkiye.
'WE ARE AWARE THAT THESE ARE VERY CRITICAL TIMES'
Stating that they are ready to share the relief material obtained from Haavisto, Red Cross and other sources, "We are aware that these are very critical hours. Many people can still be rescued. We understand that quacke-hit region definitely need support in winter conditions. In the long run, there will be a great need for restructuring in both Türkiye and Syria. It is important that we also take part in this process.” he said.
Noting that Finland's application for NATO membership is also one of the topics discussed today. Haavisto said, "We have information that Hungary will start the parliamentary approval process in February, possibly at the end of the month, but we are waiting for this process." used the phrase.
Haavisto underlined that NATO would become stronger if they join NATO with Sweden and said that the two countries started the membership process together and wanted to complete it.
Stating that Finland and Sweden share a geographical, economic, cultural and historical path, Billström said that they also applied for NATO membership together.
Billström said, "We have applied together and we aim to become a member together as soon as possible. Sweden, of course, wants to be an active partner in NATO's collective defense. We are ready to contribute to NATO's deterrence and defense activities." said.
Asked what to do if Finland's NATO membership is ratified independently of Sweden, Billström said:
"I don't want to speculate on this issue. We believe that the Baltic Sea will be a much safer place for all people living here with the two countries becoming NATO members. We believe that Sweden has taken concrete steps regarding each article of the memorandum signed between Sweden, Finland and Türkiye. "We continue to implement the agreement and deepen cooperation between government agencies. Also, as an ally, we see no reason why Türkiye should not approve of our participation."
