(Bloomberg) -- A Swedish application for NATO membership in the current situation could lead to further tension in Europe, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson said.
“If Sweden would choose to file an application to NATO in this situation it would further destabilize this part of Europe,” Andersson said at a press briefing on Tuesday.
Andersson’s comments come as her government is facing increasing pressure from opposition parties advocating membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and amid a shift in public opinion, with recent polls show a plurality in favor of joining NATO. Andersson referenced strengthened military cooperation with Finland, the U.S. and the U.K. as key to ensure Sweden’s security.
“My focus is on what gives Sweden the greatest security and on that issue my assessment is clear, that sticking to Sweden’s long-standing, consistent policy is what serves our security best,” Andersson said.
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