Hungary Overcomes Delays to Ratify Sweden's NATO Membership

With 188 votes in favor and only six against, the decision marked the resolution of prolonged negotiations and efforts by Hungary's allies to persuade its nationalist government to lift the blockade on Sweden's NATO membership.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government initially submitted the protocols for approving Sweden's entry into NATO in July 2022. However, the process faced setbacks in parliament due to opposition from lawmakers within the governing party.

While acknowledging the time-consuming nature of the decision, Pressman expressed optimism, stating, "This has been a decision that has taken some time, and we look forward to the process concluding rapidly."

The final step in formalizing the approval of Sweden's NATO bid involves a presidential signature, which is expected in the coming days.

In a recent meeting between Sweden's Prime Minister Kristersson and Prime Minister Orbán in Hungary's capital, diplomatic tensions seemed to subside, culminating in a reconciliation. The leaders announced the signing of a defense industry agreement, encompassing Hungary's acquisition of four Swedish-made JAS 39 Gripen jets and an extension of a service contract for its existing Gripen fleet.

Orbán emphasized the strategic importance of the additional fighter jets, stating, "They will significantly increase our military capabilities and further strengthen our role abroad," emphasizing how this enhancement would contribute to Hungary's participation in joint NATO operations.

Reflecting on the broader implications, Orbán highlighted the significance of defense and military agreements, stating, "To be a member of NATO together with another country means we are ready to die for each other. A deal on defense and military capacities helps to reconstruct the trust between the two countries."