In NATO, Swedish security policy must have “the solidary alliance policy” as its guiding light.
– Sweden will be a reliable, solidary and committed NATO member, says Foreign Minister Tobias Billström (M).
This means, among other things, that Sweden must be active not only in the defense of and security around NATO’s border with Russia, but also, for example, around Europe’s southern border and in the Arctic.
– We stand behind NATO’s 360-degree approach, said Billström in his speech at the People and Defense National Conference in Sälen.
In the speech, Billström described the starting points for Sweden’s future security policy, of which “the solidary alliance policy” is one.
Serious threat
He emphasized that Sweden’s upcoming NATO membership will be the biggest change in Swedish security policy in over 200 years.
– This means both a great responsibility and new opportunities to strengthen our freedom and security – not least for Swedish diplomacy, said Billström.
Sweden must, according to him, reckon that Russia will for the foreseeable future pose a serious threat to Sweden’s and Europe’s security.
Prolonged confrontation
– We must be realistic and start from – and prepare for – a long-term confrontation, said Billström.
– It is in Sweden’s interest that Russia’s strategic options for action are limited – militarily, economically and politically.
According to Billström, the main opportunity to limit Russia’s options for action is strong and sustained support for Ukraine.
The foreign minister also pointed out that with Sweden in NATO, for the first time ever, all democratic neighboring countries in our region are making the same security policy choice.
– Deepened security policy cooperation in the immediate area is one of our priorities, said Billström.
The foreign minister also emphasized that the US’s commitment is inalienable for Sweden’s and Europe’s security, and must never be taken for granted.