Erdogan Submits Sweden's NATO Bid to Turkish Parliament, Raising Hopes for Swift Ratification

Turkish President Erdogan submitted Sweden's NATO membership bid to parliament for ratification on October 23rd. This was welcomed by Sweden and NATO.

Turkey had previously raised objections over Sweden's alleged harbouring of PKK members, deemed a terrorist group by Turkey and others.

Sweden's Prime Minister Kristersson welcomed the move, with NATO's Stoltenberg hoping for a speedy vote and Sweden's accession "very soon".

Hungary's parliament also needs to ratify Sweden's bid before it can become a NATO member.

Timing of the parliamentary vote in Turkey is unclear. Erdogan's AK Party and its allies hold a majority, but Erdogan's stance may impact the vote.