Sweden became NATO's newest member on Thursday (7 March 2024), depositing its accession to the North Atlantic Treaty with the US government in Washington DC.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: “This is a historic day. Sweden will now take its rightful place at the NATO table, with an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions. After more than 200 years of non-alignment Sweden now enjoys the protection guaranteed by Article 5, the ultimate guarantee of Allied freedom and security. Sweden brings with it capable armed forces and a world-class defense industry. Swedish membership makes NATO stronger, Sweden safer and the entire Alliance more secure. Today's membership demonstrates that NATO's door remains open and that every nation has the right to choose its own path."
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 at the same time at NATO commands in Europe and North America.
