(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS, March 7 (KUNA) - Sweden became Thursday the 32nd member state of the North Atlantic Treaty (NATO) countries upon depositing its instrument of accession with the Government of the United States in Washington DC.
"This is a historic day. Sweden will now take its rightful place at NATO's table, with an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement.
"After over 200 years of non-alignment Sweden now enjoys the protection granted under Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allies' freedom and security. Sweden brings with it capable armed forces and a first-class defense industry."
Stoltenberg underscored that Sweden's accession makes NATO stronger, Sweden safer and the whole Alliance more secure.
"Today's accession demonstrates that NATO's door remains open and that every nation has the right to choose its own path," he said.
Sweden's flag will be raised alongside those of the other 31 Allies in a ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Monday (11 March 2024), and simultaneously at NATO commands across Europe and North America. (end)
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