He said in particular that the request was a “historic step for the Defense Alliance and for Europe”.
The German Chancellor said “The two countries are reacting in this way to Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the consequent dramatic change in the security situation in Europe,” he said, noting that “the Federal Government welcomes this sovereign decision by our Scandinavian friends.”/p>
He went on to say that “we are already very closely linked with Finland and Sweden in the European Union and through our bilateral relations and security relations.”
NATO, he added, “is based on the idea that we share common values and stand up for each other at all times. This Alliance is a defense alliance. It does not turn against anyone, but ensures protection and security for all allies. “This principle of collective defense has been the guarantor of peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area for decades.” Solts, exercise their sovereign right to freely choose their alliance. They show that they share the values of the Alliance and want to defend each other with us.
“With Finland and Sweden, we have two valuable allies that will strengthen NATO's defense capabilities,” he said, adding that Germany would work to ensure the rapid progress of the accession process. We will ratify it by the Federal Republic of Germany immediately in consultation with the constitutional bodies. “
He called on other states to do the same. “It is already clear to Germany: Our countries are already committed to providing each other with all possible assistance and support for mutual protection in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations. This is also included in the Treaty on European Union. “And we will emphasize this regularly with high-level political visits to Finland and Sweden,” he said.
through joint exercises “and concluded by stating that they look forward to having Finland and Sweden with them soon as NATO allies.
