Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed the case of Stockholm’s accession to NATO and Turkey’s demands in this regard during a telephone conversation with his Swedish counterpart Tobias Bilstrom.

Steps Taken and Expected

During the conversation, the ministers also discussed the steps that Sweden has already taken in accordance with Turkey’s demands, as well as the steps that Ankara expects from Stockholm in the next stage.

Clear Real Steps Needed

During the call, Fidan stressed the need for Sweden to take serious and clear real steps on Turkey’s demands in order to make progress on Turkey’s acceptance of its entry into the alliance.

Preparations for Meeting

In the same context, the ministers discussed the preparations for the meeting between Turkey and Sweden, which will be held on June 12 under the auspices of NATO.

Turkey’s Demands

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO in May 2022, but Turkey prevented the accession process and demanded that “Kurdish organizations be declared terrorist organizations and that those accused of terrorism or those involved in the 2016 coup attempt be extradited.”

Opposition to Annexation

Turkey continues to oppose the annexation of Sweden, which Ankara accuses of supporting armed terrorist organizations that threaten Turkey’s national security.

Turkey’s Contribution to NATO

The NATO Secretary General confirmed Turkey’s important contribution to NATO, thanking Ankara for sending reinforcements to northern Kosovo.

Discussion with President Erdogan

He said that he had discussed issues with President Erdogan, including the agenda for the upcoming NATO summit.

Source: RT