Hungary’s president formally signs the approval of Sweden’s NATO bid, removing last obstacle
Associated PressBUDAPEST, Hungary — Hungary’s president on Tuesday formally signed a bill approving Sweden’s NATO bid, removing the last obstacle after 18 months of delays that frustrated the alliance as it sought to expand in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. He told his visiting German counterpart Boris Pistorius: “You really come at a historic time for Sweden as we are about to become full fledged members of NATO.” “That decision will make Sweden safer and NATO’s stronger,” said Jonson. Pistorius said he was “delighted because at last, good friends turn into allies as members of NATO, and we are welcoming you with open arms to this important alliance.” The government of Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán first submitted the protocols for approving Sweden’s entry into NATO in July 2022, but the matter stalled in parliament over opposition by governing party lawmakers. Unanimous support among NATO members is required to admit new countries, and Hungary was the last of the alliance’s 31 members to give its backing since Turkey ratified the request in January.