Finland’s membership strengthens NATO: Canadian premier

By Firdevs Bulut Kartal

Toronto, CANADA (AA) - Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed Finland's accession into NATO on Tuesday, emphasizing the long-standing alliance between Finland and Canada.

"Canada was the first country to ratify Finland’s Accession Protocol, and we look forward to working more closely with Finland and all Allies to continue upholding the rules-based international order and responding to the security challenges of today and tomorrow," he said.

NATO has been the bedrock of transatlantic peace in the face of violence, authoritarianism and threats to democracy, including Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, said Trudeau.

Finland's NATO membership makes the alliance stronger and Canada fully supports Sweden's accession as well, added Trudeau.

"Canada calls on the remaining NATO Allies to conclude Sweden’s accession process without delay, as this will further strengthen the Alliance and the security of all our people,” he said.