Biden, Swedish premier discuss Ukraine, security cooperation, NATO bid

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - US President Joe Biden and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson met at the White House on Wednesday and discussed a range of issues, including security cooperation and Sweden's NATO bid.

Biden met with Kristersson to "reaffirm the strong ties" between their two nations, said the White House in a statement.

The leaders underscored their shared commitment to continue supporting Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia and coordinating transatlantic efforts on China.

"President Biden and Prime Minister Kristersson discussed our deepening bilateral defense partnership, including progress toward a new U.S.-Sweden Defense Cooperation Agreement," said the statement.

Biden also "praised Sweden's role as a regional security provider and underscored his commitment to welcoming Sweden to NATO as soon as possible," it said.

The two leaders also discussed climate change.

"The leaders also committed to support secure telecom infrastructure deployment with trusted suppliers in specific countries, including using secure, open and interoperable technologies, where appropriate," said the statement.

"The leaders further committed to deepening joint research in 6G advanced telecommunications," it added.