The flag of Finland was unfurled at the NATO headquarters after the country officially became a part of the transatlantic defence alliance
After months of waiting, Finland has officially become a member of the NATO alliance after a formal ceremony was held at its headquarters in Brussels.
The historic realignment of Europe´s security landscape took place during a ceremony where guests included US Secretary of state, Antony Blinken, and the Finnish president, foreign and defence ministers, as per the Guardian.
Finnish President Sauli Niinistö said that “It’s a great day for Finland and an important day for Nato”.
He added, “Russia tried to create a sphere around them and … we’re not a sphere. I’m sure Finns themselves feel more secure that we are living in a more stable world”.
Following the ceremony, US President Joe Biden also welcomed the completion of the accession of Finland into NATO and said, “When Putin launched his brutal war of aggression, he thought he could divide Europe and Nato. He was wrong”.
He further added, “looked forward to welcoming Sweden as a Nato member as soon as possible”.
Biden also said that “Together, strengthened by our newest ally, Finland, we will continue to preserve transatlantic security, defend every inch of Nato territory, and meet any and all challenges we face”.
Meanwhile, speaking about Sweden’s accession to NATO, Niinistö said that Finland´s membership is not complete “without Sweden”, as he stated that “persistent efforts for a rapid Swedish membership continue”.
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