Sweden allows the export of weapons to Turkey
Sweden: In what appears to be a significant concession to Ankara, which is threatening to block the Nordic nation from joining NATO, Sweden has again approved the export of military equipment to Turkey.
After Sweden submitted its application to join NATO in mid-May, Ankara sought to lift sanctions imposed after Turkey’s attack in northeastern Syria in 2019.
Read also: Truss claims her government handled the tax cut announcement badly.
The Inspectorate for Strategic Products said in a statement that “the government has decided that Swedish membership in NATO is the best way to protect the security of Sweden and the Swedish people.”
The government said earlier in June that the policy for military exports could change if Sweden joins the military alliance.
The authority argued that Sweden’s application for NATO membership significantly strengthens the defense and security policy rationale for approving the export of military equipment to other members, including Turkey.
Read also: ‘UK travel is on sale’ as falling pound draws Americans
ISP announced that it has approved the export of “electronic equipment”, “software” and “technical support” to Turkey for the third quarter of 2022.
The merger of Sweden and Finland has so far been ratified by 28 of NATO’s 30 member states. Now there is only Turkey and Hungary. The acceptance of new coalition members must be unanimous.
Turkey’s parliament will return to work on Saturday after the summer break. However, due to the upcoming parliamentary elections in June 2023, the nation may hesitate to approve membership of the Nordic countries.
Read also:University of Newcastle symposium to feature new critical mineral extraction technology
On Friday, Ankara had not responded to the Swedish message.