NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that he sees "potential" for the alliance & India to work together. Speaking to our Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Stoltenberg said, 'we see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world. Nations that share values". The comments come even has last few years have seen official level talks between the 2 sides.

NATO to work closely with India, sees 'potential for alliance,' says Jens Stoltenberg | WION

As NATO countries push for Sweden's membership into the bloc, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is all set to visit Turkey on 3-4 June 2023. A statement by the alliance said that&nbsp;Stoltenberg is visiting the Middle-Eastern nation to&nbsp;attend the inauguration ceremony for the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Ankara on Saturday, 3 June.

In addition to attending the ceremony, the NATO chief will also hold bilateral meetings with President Erdogan and with senior Turkish officials, the statement added.&nbsp;

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The Turkish president was re-elected last week and will head the government for yet another five-year term, defeating main opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.&nbsp;

The Secretary-General will also have bilateral meetings with President Erdogan and senior Turkish officials.

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US has been pushing Turkey to remove hurdles and endorse Sweden's bid to join NATO. NATO Secretary General who was in Oslo for the bloc's foreign ministers' meeting said, "There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then."&nbsp;

The next NATO summit will be held in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 11-12, 2023.&nbsp;Stoltenberg said that Sweden is "within reach" to join the summit in time.&nbsp;

"There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then," Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on the eve of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting to prepare for the summit.

<h2>Hungary, Turkey yet to ratify Sweden’s NATO&nbsp;joining&nbsp;</h2>

Though Finland formally joined the military alliance in April, Sweden is still struggling in its bid for membership. Turkey and Hungary are the only two member countries yet to ratify Sweden's membership bid. While raising the issue of Kurdish militants, Turkey is still in opposition to Sweden's membership in the bloc.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Hungarian government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs earlier said that there are&nbsp; ample "grievances" that need to be addressed before Sweden's admission is ratified.&nbsp;As per reports, Budapest is not moving forward with its support for Sweden over its criticism of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's record on democracy and the rule of law.

<h2>Sweden&nbsp;calls on Turkey, Hungary for ratification&nbsp;</h2>

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom on Thursday called on Turkey and Hungary "to start the ratification of the Swedish membership to NATO".

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As NATO countries push for Sweden's membership into the bloc, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is all set to visit Turkey on 3-4 June 2023. A statement by the alliance said that Stoltenberg is visiting the Middle-Eastern nation to attend the inauguration ceremony for the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Ankara on Saturday, 3 June.

As NATO countries push for Sweden's membership into the bloc, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is all set to visit Turkey on 3-4 June 2023. A statement by the alliance said that Stoltenberg is visiting the Middle-Eastern nation to attend the inauguration ceremony for the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Ankara on Saturday, 3 June. In addition to attending the ceremony, the NATO chief will also hold bilateral meetings with President Erdogan and with senior Turkish officials, the statement added. Also Read | Indian scientists discover 62 plants that can live without water in Western Ghats The Turkish president was re-elected last week and will head the government for yet another five-year term, defeating main opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu. The Secretary-General will also have bilateral meetings with President Erdogan and senior Turkish officials. Also Read | US: Mumbai 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana challenges order of his extradition to India US has been pushing Turkey to remove hurdles and endorse Sweden's bid to join NATO. NATO Secretary General who was in Oslo for the bloc's foreign ministers' meeting said, "There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then." The next NATO summit will be held in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 11-12, 2023. Stoltenberg said that Sweden is "within reach" to join the summit in time. "There are no guarantees but it's absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then," Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on the eve of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting to prepare for the summit. Hungary, Turkey yet to ratify Sweden’s NATO joining Though Finland formally joined the military alliance in April, Sweden is still struggling in its bid for membership. Turkey and Hungary are the only two member countries yet to ratify Sweden's membership bid. While raising the issue of Kurdish militants, Turkey is still in opposition to Sweden's membership in the bloc. Watch | Hollywood star Bruce Willis' daughter Tallulah talks about her father's daily battle with dementia × Meanwhile, Hungarian government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs earlier said that there are ample "grievances" that need to be addressed before Sweden's admission is ratified. As per reports, Budapest is not moving forward with its support for Sweden over its criticism of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's record on democracy and the rule of law. Sweden calls on Turkey, Hungary for ratification Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom on Thursday called on Turkey and Hungary "to start the ratification of the Swedish membership to NATO". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

NATO chief to visit Turkey, push Erdogan for ratification of Sweden’s bloc membership

The informal meeting of NATO's foreign ministers has concluded the meeting saw deliberations on several pressing issues which concerns the 30-member block this ranged from Sweden's membership in NATO to the war in Ukraine. The meeting in Oslo has set the stage for the Block's main Summit which will be held in Lithuanian Capital Vilnius next month, one of the issues which dominated the agenda during the foreign Minister's meeting was on how to evolve the relationship with Ukraine.

NATO meet concludes, now stage set for Vilnius summit

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) foreign ministers met in Norway's capital city Oslo on Thursday (June 1) to discuss support for Ukraine and Sweden's NATO membership bid. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the ministers are expected to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine, which has been combating the Russian invasion since February last year.

NATO Foreign Ministers meet concludes, talks included Ukraine & Sweden membership

"We stand together in order to defend Ukraine. Kyiv has tried to defend its own borders and regain the territories that Russia has invaded," says Norway FM Anniken Huitfeldt while speaking to WION's Siddhant Sibbal at the NATO Foreign Ministers meet in Oslo.

'We stand together in order to defend Ukraine', says Norway FM Anniken Huitfeldt

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that he sees "potential" for the alliance and India to work together. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Stoltenberg said, "We see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world. Nations that share values."&nbsp;The last few years have had some official-level talks between the two sides.&nbsp;

He also spoke on China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific. Expressing concerns over Beijing's "coercive behaviour", he pointed out, "What happens in the Indian Ocean or in the South China Sea also matters for our security".&nbsp;

The NATO chief was in Oslo for the two-day NATO informal foreign ministers meet. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, Sweden's membership in the grouping, upcoming NATO summit in Lithuania dominated the agenda at the meeting. Read his full interaction with WION here:&nbsp;

WION: My first question to you is how European security architecture has changed since the conflict started last year.&nbsp; 
Jens Stoltenberg: what we have seen is a war of aggression launched by President Putin and leadership in Moscow against the sovereign independent nation with internationally recognised borders. What allies have done, is that we have provided support to Ukraine because you have to remember this is, this is a war aggression. We have an aggressor Russia, invading another country, Ukraine. It is enshrined in the UN Charter as part of international law that when attacked, when you're a victim of aggression, you have the right to self-defence. So, Ukraine defend itself and NATO Allies help Ukraine to uphold the right of self-defence. We are not a party to the conflict, but we support Ukraine in the right to defend against that.

WION: there have been drone strikes inside Russia, Do you think that it is going to escalate the conflict? Are you worried about the developments? What do you have to say about that? 
Jens Stoltenberg: Wars are unpredictable. Wars are dangerous because there's always the risk that things may escalate and go out of control. Therefore, NATO's task is partly to provide support to Ukraine as we do, to help them to defend themselves, but also to prevent this war from escalating beyond Ukraine and becoming a full-fledged war between NATO and Russia and to do that we have increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance, by having forces in the eastern part of NATO, we are sending a message to Moscow, we are removing any room for miscalculation, misunderstanding in Moscow, about our readiness to protect and defend all allies. And by sending that message, we are preventing escalation, we're preserving peace. The war in Ukraine is a tragedy. We have seen a lot of human suffering. But of course, a full-fledged war will be many, many times worse in Europe, we need to prevent that by sending a message to Moscow. Of course, it is dangerous when we have a full-fledged war in Europe. It was President Putin that started this war and President Putin can end his war, and that's the best way to prevent any risk of escalation or for more human suffering.

WION: While European capitals are very worried about the conflict, there are concerns in the Indo-Pacific as well. The Chinese aggressive actions in the region have been a concerning development for countries like India, and Japan. How does NATO see that, the ongoing Chinese aggressive actions but also its actions towards India, in India's northern borders 
Jens Stoltenberg: We are concerned about China's more coercive behaviour and the way they're trying to coerce neighbours. And we have seen it in the South China Sea, seen it in the Indian Ocean. And of course, this highlights that security is global. NATO will remain a regional line between North America and Europe but what happens in the Indian Ocean or in the South China Sea also matters for our security as it matters of course for the countries in that region. And therefore, we are working more closely with our close partners, Pacific partners Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand and I think it is a potential for also NATO and India to work more closely together. But of course, that has to be something that is wanted from India, like from maritime security, cyber, on the effects of climate change, and now security. These are issues where I think there's a potential for actually doing more together.

WION: India and NATO, there have been conversations in the past between the two sides. What are these conversations all about? And can we see some kind of future cooperation as well between India and NATO? 
Jens Stoltenberg: NATO is the Alliance for North America &amp; Europe, but we have global partners in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific because we want to work together with partners and mutual interests to stay closer together. We have seen China, and Russia are coming closer and closer. And just before the invasion of Ukraine China and Russia signed the Declaration saying that their partnership has no limits. And we see how Russia and China have more naval patrols, and more able tools. They had just had a big joint naval exercise off the coast of Africa. So this matters for NATO, it matters for India, for countries in many places in the world, and therefore we see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world. Nations that share values, that believe in the international rules-based, to work closer with them, not because we agree on all issues, but because we share the same basic values in international law, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and therefore, I think there's potential in working more closely together.

WION: how do you see India's role on resolving the ongoing conflict? Do you see India's role in resolving the ongoing conflict the Chinese have been putting up their own ideas and India has been saying as the Indian prime minister said that this is not an era of war. So if you can talk about that, your views on that? 
Jens Stoltenberg: Well, I first of all, I welcome efforts to try to find a peaceful negotiated solution. But of course, it is for Ukraine to finally decide what kind of framework, what kind of conditions are acceptable for negotiations. Because again, Ukraine has been attacked. A significant part of the territory is occupied by Russia. And of course, you make have to make sure that a ceasefire or any other pause in the war is not just an excuse for Russia to regroup, to rearm, to reconstitute and then to rest and then to launch new attacks, because the war against Ukraine didn't start in February last year. It started in 2014. That was when Russia annexed Crimea, and later on, the same year went into eastern Donbas. And since then, there have been attempts to negotiate ceasefires. We had something called the Minsk agreements, but there's been a conflict going on there since 2014.

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that he sees "potential" for the alliance and India to work together. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Stoltenberg said, "We see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that he sees "potential" for the alliance and India to work together. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Stoltenberg said, "We see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world. Nations that share values." The last few years have had some official-level talks between the two sides. He also spoke on China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific. Expressing concerns over Beijing's "coercive behaviour", he pointed out, "What happens in the Indian Ocean or in the South China Sea also matters for our security". The NATO chief was in Oslo for the two-day NATO informal foreign ministers meet. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, Sweden's membership in the grouping, upcoming NATO summit in Lithuania dominated the agenda at the meeting. Read his full interaction with WION here: WION: My first question to you is how European security architecture has changed since the conflict started last year. Jens Stoltenberg: what we have seen is a war of aggression launched by President Putin and leadership in Moscow against the sovereign independent nation with internationally recognised borders. What allies have done, is that we have provided support to Ukraine because you have to remember this is, this is a war aggression. We have an aggressor Russia, invading another country, Ukraine. It is enshrined in the UN Charter as part of international law that when attacked, when you're a victim of aggression, you have the right to self-defence. So, Ukraine defend itself and NATO Allies help Ukraine to uphold the right of self-defence. We are not a party to the conflict, but we support Ukraine in the right to defend against that. WION: there have been drone strikes inside Russia, Do you think that it is going to escalate the conflict? Are you worried about the developments? What do you have to say about that? Jens Stoltenberg: Wars are unpredictable. Wars are dangerous because there's always the risk that things may escalate and go out of control. Therefore, NATO's task is partly to provide support to Ukraine as we do, to help them to defend themselves, but also to prevent this war from escalating beyond Ukraine and becoming a full-fledged war between NATO and Russia and to do that we have increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance, by having forces in the eastern part of NATO, we are sending a message to Moscow, we are removing any room for miscalculation, misunderstanding in Moscow, about our readiness to protect and defend all allies. And by sending that message, we are preventing escalation, we're preserving peace. The war in Ukraine is a tragedy. We have seen a lot of human suffering. But of course, a full-fledged war will be many, many times worse in Europe, we need to prevent that by sending a message to Moscow. Of course, it is dangerous when we have a full-fledged war in Europe. It was President Putin that started this war and President Putin can end his war, and that's the best way to prevent any risk of escalation or for more human suffering. WION: While European capitals are very worried about the conflict, there are concerns in the Indo-Pacific as well. The Chinese aggressive actions in the region have been a concerning development for countries like India, and Japan. How does NATO see that, the ongoing Chinese aggressive actions but also its actions towards India, in India's northern borders Jens Stoltenberg: We are concerned about China's more coercive behaviour and the way they're trying to coerce neighbours. And we have seen it in the South China Sea, seen it in the Indian Ocean. And of course, this highlights that security is global. NATO will remain a regional line between North America and Europe but what happens in the Indian Ocean or in the South China Sea also matters for our security as it matters of course for the countries in that region. And therefore, we are working more closely with our close partners, Pacific partners Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand and I think it is a potential for also NATO and India to work more closely together. But of course, that has to be something that is wanted from India, like from maritime security, cyber, on the effects of climate change, and now security. These are issues where I think there's a potential for actually doing more together. WION: India and NATO, there have been conversations in the past between the two sides. What are these conversations all about? And can we see some kind of future cooperation as well between India and NATO? Jens Stoltenberg: NATO is the Alliance for North America & Europe, but we have global partners in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific because we want to work together with partners and mutual interests to stay closer together. We have seen China, and Russia are coming closer and closer. And just before the invasion of Ukraine China and Russia signed the Declaration saying that their partnership has no limits. And we see how Russia and China have more naval patrols, and more able tools. They had just had a big joint naval exercise off the coast of Africa. So this matters for NATO, it matters for India, for countries in many places in the world, and therefore we see value in strengthening our ties, our relationship with other democratic nations, India's the biggest democracy in the world. Nations that share values, that believe in the international rules-based, to work closer with them, not because we agree on all issues, but because we share the same basic values in international law, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and therefore, I think there's potential in working more closely together. WION: how do you see India's role on resolving the ongoing conflict? Do you see India's role in resolving the ongoing conflict the Chinese have been putting up their own ideas and India has been saying as the Indian prime minister said that this is not an era of war. So if you can talk about that, your views on that? Jens Stoltenberg: Well, I first of all, I welcome efforts to try to find a peaceful negotiated solution. But of course, it is for Ukraine to finally decide what kind of framework, what kind of conditions are acceptable for negotiations. Because again, Ukraine has been attacked. A significant part of the territory is occupied by Russia. And of course, you make have to make sure that a ceasefire or any other pause in the war is not just an excuse for Russia to regroup, to rearm, to reconstitute and then to rest and then to launch new attacks, because the war against Ukraine didn't start in February last year. It started in 2014. That was when Russia annexed Crimea, and later on, the same year went into eastern Donbas. And since then, there have been attempts to negotiate ceasefires. We had something called the Minsk agreements, but there's been a conflict going on there since 2014. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EXCLUSIVE: Potential for India and NATO to work more closely, says Stoltenberg; expresses concern over China

While speaking to WION's Siddhant Sibbal, Norway's foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt has said that there needs to be a discussion on the 'threats from China' and concerning developments of the Indo-Pacific region will be part of the conversations at the NATO FMs meet in Oslo. She also added that "We don't want to decouple but derisk our trade relationship with China."

'Don't want to decouple, but must derisk ties with China', says Norway FM Anniken Huitfeldt

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO Secretary General spoke exclusively to WION. Stoltenberg touched upon several issues, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, changing security landscape in Europe, and cooperation between India and NATO. Here are a few excerpts from the conversation.

NATO’s Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on WION | Exclusive

The second day of the NATO informal meeting of Foreign Ministers will get underway in Oslo in a few hours. Later today, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg will give a joint statement with US Secretary of state Antony Blinken. President Joe Biden has approved a new package of military aid for Ukraine that totals up to 300 million dollars. It includes additional munitions for drones and an array of other weapons.

NATO FMs meet in Oslo: US says, 'Biden approves $300 million military aid for Ukraine' | WION

Day 2 of NATO foreign ministers meet in Oslo | English News

Gathering more than 40 European leaders in Moldova on Thursday will be a symbolic thumb in Vladimir Putin's eye - a sign of collective commitment to join hands against Moscow.

European leaders head to Moldova while they bid to show Putin a united front

NATO Foreign Ministers meet day 2 | Ukraine to get $300 million in military aid from US | WION

The second European Political Community summit began in Moldova, the neighbouring country of&nbsp;war-torn Ukraine, on Thursday (June 1) which saw the participation of 47 leaders from the 27-nation bloc, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who said that Kyiv wanted to receive a “clear” decision on its future in NATO during the military alliance’s leaders' meet which will take place in July in Vilnius.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine about its NATO bid</h2>

Addressing the summit of European leaders in Moldova, the Ukrainian president said that he wanted to receive a “clear” decision about the war-torn country’s bid to join the military alliance during the upcoming meeting which will be held in Lithuania.&nbsp;

“This year is for decisions. In summer in Vilnius at the NATO summit, a clear invitation to the members of Ukraine is needed and the security guarantees on the way to NATO membership are needed,” said Zelensky. He added, “On our accession to the EU a clear, positive decision is needed.”&nbsp;

The Ukrainian president also spoke about Kyiv’s preparation for the Peace Summit to “guide the world to jointly implement” the 10-point peace plan proposed by Zelensky, which entails the full withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is the summit being held in Moldova?</h2>

The summit of over 40 leaders from the EU’s 27 nations was held at Mimi Castle in southern Moldovan wine country which is some 20 kilometres away from Ukraine and also near to the Russian-backed, breakaway Transdniestria region of Moldova.&nbsp;

The decision to host the summit in Moldova is being seen as a symbolic show of support for Kyiv and Chisinau.&nbsp;

The summit is also&nbsp;taking place with&nbsp;NATO Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) surveillance planes flying over the former Soviet republic of 2.5 million people. Notably, Moldova, whose President Maia Sandu, a pro-Western leader has sought EU membership, shut its airspace except for official delegation planes.&nbsp;

Notably, Moldova has witnessed missile debris multiple times since the beginning of the Russian invasion. “The presence of these leaders in our country is a clear message that Moldova is not alone and neither is our neighbour Ukraine, which for a year and three months has been standing against the barbaric invasion of Russia,” said the Moldovan president.&nbsp;

In addition to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the EU leaders are also expected to discuss issues like ethnic tensions in Kosovo as well as peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.&nbsp;

France and Germany are also expected to host a round table involving the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in an effort to broker a peace deal between the two countries, during the summit in Moldova.&nbsp;

<h2>Moldova and Ukraine</h2>

While in Moldova, the Ukrainian president urged the international community to put concrete “security guarantees” in place for Kyiv and its neighbouring Moldova amid threats from&nbsp;Russia. Zelensky also indicated that he would talk to “partner countries” about a possible “air jets coalition” and providing Patriot missiles, which are used by the United States and its allies.

The Ukrainian president said that “security guarantees are very important” for both Kyiv and Chisinau citing “Russia, their aggressions in Ukraine and potential aggression in other parts of Europe.” Notably, Moldova, like Ukraine, applied to join the EU last year shortly after the Russian invasion.&nbsp;

“We support Moldova and its people who are integrating into the EU. You supported our people, our refugees who fled in the first days of the war, and we will never forget it,” said Zelensky standing beside Sandu while addressing the press.&nbsp;

Prior to the summit, Zelensky also said that he met with his Moldovan counterpart&nbsp;during which they discussed “strengthening cooperation between our countries and counter the challenges posed by Russia together.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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The second European Political Community summit began in Moldova, the neighbouring country of war-torn Ukraine, on Thursday (June 1) which saw the participation of 47 leaders from the 27-nation bloc, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who said that Kyiv wanted to receive a “clear” decision on its future in NATO during the military alliance’s leaders' meet which will take place in July in Vilnius.

The second European Political Community summit began in Moldova, the neighbouring country of war-torn Ukraine, on Thursday (June 1) which saw the participation of 47 leaders from the 27-nation bloc, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who said that Kyiv wanted to receive a “clear” decision on its future in NATO during the military alliance’s leaders' meet which will take place in July in Vilnius. Ukraine about its NATO bid Addressing the summit of European leaders in Moldova, the Ukrainian president said that he wanted to receive a “clear” decision about the war-torn country’s bid to join the military alliance during the upcoming meeting which will be held in Lithuania. “This year is for decisions. In summer in Vilnius at the NATO summit, a clear invitation to the members of Ukraine is needed and the security guarantees on the way to NATO membership are needed,” said Zelensky. He added, “On our accession to the EU a clear, positive decision is needed.” The Ukrainian president also spoke about Kyiv’s preparation for the Peace Summit to “guide the world to jointly implement” the 10-point peace plan proposed by Zelensky, which entails the full withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. Why is the summit being held in Moldova? The summit of over 40 leaders from the EU’s 27 nations was held at Mimi Castle in southern Moldovan wine country which is some 20 kilometres away from Ukraine and also near to the Russian-backed, breakaway Transdniestria region of Moldova. The decision to host the summit in Moldova is being seen as a symbolic show of support for Kyiv and Chisinau. The summit is also taking place with NATO Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) surveillance planes flying over the former Soviet republic of 2.5 million people. Notably, Moldova, whose President Maia Sandu, a pro-Western leader has sought EU membership, shut its airspace except for official delegation planes. Notably, Moldova has witnessed missile debris multiple times since the beginning of the Russian invasion. “The presence of these leaders in our country is a clear message that Moldova is not alone and neither is our neighbour Ukraine, which for a year and three months has been standing against the barbaric invasion of Russia,” said the Moldovan president. In addition to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the EU leaders are also expected to discuss issues like ethnic tensions in Kosovo as well as peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. France and Germany are also expected to host a round table involving the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in an effort to broker a peace deal between the two countries, during the summit in Moldova. Moldova and Ukraine While in Moldova, the Ukrainian president urged the international community to put concrete “security guarantees” in place for Kyiv and its neighbouring Moldova amid threats from Russia. Zelensky also indicated that he would talk to “partner countries” about a possible “air jets coalition” and providing Patriot missiles, which are used by the United States and its allies. The Ukrainian president said that “security guarantees are very important” for both Kyiv and Chisinau citing “Russia, their aggressions in Ukraine and potential aggression in other parts of Europe.” Notably, Moldova, like Ukraine, applied to join the EU last year shortly after the Russian invasion. “We support Moldova and its people who are integrating into the EU. You supported our people, our refugees who fled in the first days of the war, and we will never forget it,” said Zelensky standing beside Sandu while addressing the press. Prior to the summit, Zelensky also said that he met with his Moldovan counterpart during which they discussed “strengthening cooperation between our countries and counter the challenges posed by Russia together.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky joins European leaders summit in Moldova, asks for ‘clear’ decision on NATO membership

French President Emmanuel Macron urged the West to provide "tangible and credible" security guarantees to Ukraine as it fights Russia's incursion. Macron emphasised in Bratislava that NATO security guarantees for Kiev are in the interests of the West and that Ukraine "is today protecting Europe."

NATO meet: Emmanuel Macron urges tangible security guarantees for Kyiv

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) foreign ministers met in Norway's capital city Oslo on Thursday (June 1) to discuss support for Ukraine and Sweden's NATO membership bid.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) foreign ministers met in Norway's capital city Oslo on Thursday (June 1) to discuss support for Ukraine and Sweden's NATO membership bid. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the ministers are expected to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine, which has been combating the Russian invasion since February last year. During the meeting, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said he spoke earlier this week with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after he won the re-election. The conversation comes as Stoltenberg announced he would soon travel to Turkey to discuss Sweden's request (to join NATO), to close a process that has been delayed due to objections from member countries Turkey and Hungary. Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession in March but said Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers terrorists. Stoltenberg also said that Russia cannot stop Ukraine from becoming a NATO member. 'NATO needs to think about what security guarantees it can give Ukraine' Ahead of the NATO foreign ministers meeting, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said the intergovernmental military alliance needed to think about what kind of security guarantees it can give Ukraine. "I have to recall a simple principle of international law, which is that all sovereign states have the right to freely choose their alliances," Colanna said. Apart from Colanna, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said Ukraine should be given a "very clear path" towards becoming a NATO member. "We must give a very strong message that there won't be any grey zones any more in the neighbouring of Russia," Tsahkna said, Reuters reported. However, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned NATO cannot be joined by a country while it is in the midst of a war. "And as a result of the Russian war of aggression, cooperation with Ukraine and NATO has further intensified and therefore what NATO has always made clear is the open door policy and at the same time it is also clear that in the middle of a war we cannot speak about a new membership," Baerbock said. And Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn warned NATO's mutual assistance clause meant the alliance would enter the war with Russia if it accepted Ukraine as a member while the fighting goes on. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NATO foreign ministers meet in Oslo to discuss support for Ukraine, Sweden's membership bid

NATO foreign ministers meet in Oslo to discuss support for Ukraine, Sweden`s membership bid

US at NATO meet: Military aid for Ukraine includes drones and weapons

Sweden has not lost all hope as far as its NATO membership is considered it aspires to be a part of North Atlantic Treaty Organization or the NATO by the time the block holds its Summit in Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius in July this is in line with statements coming from senior officials from Washington.

NATO optimistic about Sweden's membership before July summit

The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes.

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The NATO peacekeepers were able to secure a town hall in Zvečan as the situation remained tense.

“We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on Tuesday, after holding talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, reports AP news agency.

Stoltenberg said that the 30-nation&nbsp;alliance would also “put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high readiness so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps.”&nbsp;

A battalion typically ranges from 300 to around 1,000 troops. The NATO peacekeeping mission, Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently consists of almost 3,800 troops.

The crisis dates back to April when Kosovo Serbs boycotted local elections, allowing ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils with a turnout of less than 3.5 per cent—– a move that led the US and its allies to rebuke Kosovo’s leaders on Friday.

<h2 dir="ltr">NATO chief calls for calm</h2>

On Monday, the KFOR soldiers prevented a group of ethnic Serbian demonstrators from entering the municipality building in Zvečan town where clashes had erupted, raising fears of instability and flareup in the Balkan region amidst increased Western efforts to resolve a long-standing dispute.

NATO chief condemned the violence, saying that “such attacks are unacceptable and must stop.” Issuing a stern warning, Stoltenberg said that NATO troops “will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo.”

He urged both sides to de-escalate and refrain from “further irresponsible behaviour,” and asked them to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations.

<h2 dir="ltr">West, Russia-China take different stand</h2>

Kosovo was once part of Serbia. But in 2008, it broke away from the region and formed its own sovereign country.&nbsp; Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia.

The United States and many European nations have recognised Kosovo’s independence, while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade.

On Tuesday, China extended its support to Serbia and backed its efforts to “safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity”, whereas Moscow reiterated its criticism of Western policies in the dispute.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes.

The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes. The NATO peacekeepers were able to secure a town hall in Zvečan as the situation remained tense. “We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on Tuesday, after holding talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, reports AP news agency. Stoltenberg said that the 30-nation alliance would also “put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high readiness so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps.” A battalion typically ranges from 300 to around 1,000 troops. The NATO peacekeeping mission, Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. The crisis dates back to April when Kosovo Serbs boycotted local elections, allowing ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils with a turnout of less than 3.5 per cent—– a move that led the US and its allies to rebuke Kosovo’s leaders on Friday. NATO chief calls for calm On Monday, the KFOR soldiers prevented a group of ethnic Serbian demonstrators from entering the municipality building in Zvečan town where clashes had erupted, raising fears of instability and flareup in the Balkan region amidst increased Western efforts to resolve a long-standing dispute. NATO chief condemned the violence, saying that “such attacks are unacceptable and must stop.” Issuing a stern warning, Stoltenberg said that NATO troops “will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo.” He urged both sides to de-escalate and refrain from “further irresponsible behaviour,” and asked them to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations. West, Russia-China take different stand Kosovo was once part of Serbia. But in 2008, it broke away from the region and formed its own sovereign country. Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia. The United States and many European nations have recognised Kosovo’s independence, while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade. On Tuesday, China extended its support to Serbia and backed its efforts to “safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity”, whereas Moscow reiterated its criticism of Western policies in the dispute. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NATO to send 700 more troops to quell violence in Kosovo

The Latvian lawmakers, on Wednesday (May 31) elected the popular and long-time foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics as the Baltic nation’s next president, said the country’s Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins.

The 49-year-old will also become the first openly gay president in the Baltic nation&nbsp;and will represent the European Union and NATO member nations at the security alliance’s upcoming summit in Vilnius, Lithuania.

<h2>Rinkevics’ election&nbsp;</h2>

Rinkevics will serve a four-year term and is expected to be sworn in on July 8. Latvia’s long-time top diplomat received 52 votes from the 100-seat Saeima legislature, one&nbsp;more than what was required to win.&nbsp;

He was contesting against businessman Uldis Pilens who managed to garner 25 votes in the third round of voting. Meanwhile, the third candidate, Elina Pinto, dropped out of the race. Rinkevics ran as the candidate of his and PM Karins’ New Unity party.

The incumbent President Egils Levits, who took office in 2019, did not seek re-election after Karins’ three-party coalition could not agree on a joint candidate. Reportedly, Levits said he would not run if that was the case.&nbsp;

After the election, Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “I am honoured and humbled to be elected as President of the Republic of Latvia, I will do my best to serve the people of Latvia well. I thank Members of Parliament for their trust.”&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the&nbsp;president-elect?</h2>

Rinkevics has held multiple posts in the Latvian government, including that of state secretary and&nbsp;the defence ministry. According to reports, he also worked as a journalist at Latvian Radio in the 1990s. He has been a popular figure in Latvian politics as well as among the 1.9 million people of the Baltic nation, because of his tough stance against Russia and staunch support for Ukraine.&nbsp;

After the elections, Rinkevics addressed a press conference and reiterated his unwavering support for the war-torn country and urged countries to give Ukraine possible signals and reassurance of NATO membership in the upcoming summit which will be held in July in Lithuania.&nbsp;

The country’s top diplomat since 2011 will also become the first openly gay president among the former Soviet nations. He&nbsp;announced in 2014 that he is “proudly” homosexual. The 49-year-old is set to take the largely ceremonial position and will become Latvia’s 11th head of state since its independence in 1918.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Latvian lawmakers, on Wednesday (May 31) elected the popular and long-time foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics as the Baltic nation’s next president, said the country’s Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins.

The Latvian lawmakers, on Wednesday (May 31) elected the popular and long-time foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics as the Baltic nation’s next president, said the country’s Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins. The 49-year-old will also become the first openly gay president in the Baltic nation and will represent the European Union and NATO member nations at the security alliance’s upcoming summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. Rinkevics’ election Rinkevics will serve a four-year term and is expected to be sworn in on July 8. Latvia’s long-time top diplomat received 52 votes from the 100-seat Saeima legislature, one more than what was required to win. He was contesting against businessman Uldis Pilens who managed to garner 25 votes in the third round of voting. Meanwhile, the third candidate, Elina Pinto, dropped out of the race. Rinkevics ran as the candidate of his and PM Karins’ New Unity party. The incumbent President Egils Levits, who took office in 2019, did not seek re-election after Karins’ three-party coalition could not agree on a joint candidate. Reportedly, Levits said he would not run if that was the case. After the election, Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “I am honoured and humbled to be elected as President of the Republic of Latvia, I will do my best to serve the people of Latvia well. I thank Members of Parliament for their trust.” What do we know about the president-elect? Rinkevics has held multiple posts in the Latvian government, including that of state secretary and the defence ministry. According to reports, he also worked as a journalist at Latvian Radio in the 1990s. He has been a popular figure in Latvian politics as well as among the 1.9 million people of the Baltic nation, because of his tough stance against Russia and staunch support for Ukraine. After the elections, Rinkevics addressed a press conference and reiterated his unwavering support for the war-torn country and urged countries to give Ukraine possible signals and reassurance of NATO membership in the upcoming summit which will be held in July in Lithuania. The country’s top diplomat since 2011 will also become the first openly gay president among the former Soviet nations. He announced in 2014 that he is “proudly” homosexual. The 49-year-old is set to take the largely ceremonial position and will become Latvia’s 11th head of state since its independence in 1918. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Latvia’s parliament elects popular foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics as the new president

Norway's foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt has said that there needs to be a discussion on the 'threats from China', and concerns regarding the development&nbsp;of the Indo-Pacific region will be part of the conversations at the NATO FMs meet in Oslo. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in the Norwegian capital, the minister&nbsp;explained, "We don't want to decouple but derisk our trade relationship with China."&nbsp;

Norway is currently hosting a two-day NATO informal foreign ministers meet. The Russia-Ukraine conflict and expansion of the NATO grouping with Sweden's membership dominate the agenda. Asked about Sweden's membership of the grouping, the FM pointed out that "there is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back now and Sweden will of course contribute to strengthen the whole alliance".&nbsp;

WION's Sidhant Sibal spoke to Anniken Huitfeldt. Here's the full conversation:&nbsp;

WION: You are hosting this meeting, what is the key focus and how much will be the focus on Chinese aggressive actions in Indo-Pacific?

Anniken Huitfeldt: We'll of course also discuss China, but the main topic will be how we can give more assistance to Ukraine.

WION: Essentially the agenda will be Russia Ukraine conflict during this meeting but does the worry of Indo pacific area also dominate the issues?

Anniken Huitfeldt: It has been on the agenda in several ministerial meetings and will also be on the agenda this time. We need to discuss the threats from China. And we all have a very complex relationship with China. We do trade with them. We don't want to decouple but derisk our trade relationship with China.

WION: How confident are you about Ukraine becoming a member of the NATO grouping in the foreseeable future?

Anniken Huitfeldt: It is not a question of whether Ukraine should be a member of NATO or not. The question is when and how? This is going to be a part of the discussion we are going to have during these two days in Oslo.&nbsp;

WION: Sweden wants to be a member of NATO and there is resistance from Turkey.. do you think after Erdogan's re-election there can be a change in Turkey's thought process.

Anniken Huitfeldt: I hope so. There is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back now and Sweden will of course contribute to strengthening the whole alliance and particularly for Norway, neighbouring Sweden is so important to the government.

WION: How do you see India's role in resolving Russia Ukraine conflict?&nbsp;

Anniken Huitfeldt: I think India is a democratic country, it is a very strong defender of international law. Where we can never, can put might before right. So in that way, India will be a very strong defender of this principle, the same principle as we are defending.

WION: How do you see India's ties and How do you see India's role in the Arctic?

Anniken Huitfeldt: Well you have some researchers up there and it is important that we do common research in order to decrease the temperature. There is a very high risk of devastating consequences of the rise in temperature in this area and we will need to cooperate with India on that.

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Norway's foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt has said that there needs to be a discussion on the 'threats from China', and concerns regarding the development of the Indo-Pacific region will be part of the conversations at the NATO FMs meet in Oslo.

Norway's foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt has said that there needs to be a discussion on the 'threats from China', and concerns regarding the development of the Indo-Pacific region will be part of the conversations at the NATO FMs meet in Oslo. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in the Norwegian capital, the minister explained, "We don't want to decouple but derisk our trade relationship with China." Norway is currently hosting a two-day NATO informal foreign ministers meet. The Russia-Ukraine conflict and expansion of the NATO grouping with Sweden's membership dominate the agenda. Asked about Sweden's membership of the grouping, the FM pointed out that "there is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back now and Sweden will of course contribute to strengthen the whole alliance". WION's Sidhant Sibal spoke to Anniken Huitfeldt. Here's the full conversation: WION: You are hosting this meeting, what is the key focus and how much will be the focus on Chinese aggressive actions in Indo-Pacific? Anniken Huitfeldt: We'll of course also discuss China, but the main topic will be how we can give more assistance to Ukraine. WION: Essentially the agenda will be Russia Ukraine conflict during this meeting but does the worry of Indo pacific area also dominate the issues? Anniken Huitfeldt: It has been on the agenda in several ministerial meetings and will also be on the agenda this time. We need to discuss the threats from China. And we all have a very complex relationship with China. We do trade with them. We don't want to decouple but derisk our trade relationship with China. WION: How confident are you about Ukraine becoming a member of the NATO grouping in the foreseeable future? Anniken Huitfeldt: It is not a question of whether Ukraine should be a member of NATO or not. The question is when and how? This is going to be a part of the discussion we are going to have during these two days in Oslo. WION: Sweden wants to be a member of NATO and there is resistance from Turkey.. do you think after Erdogan's re-election there can be a change in Turkey's thought process. Anniken Huitfeldt: I hope so. There is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back now and Sweden will of course contribute to strengthening the whole alliance and particularly for Norway, neighbouring Sweden is so important to the government. WION: How do you see India's role in resolving Russia Ukraine conflict? Anniken Huitfeldt: I think India is a democratic country, it is a very strong defender of international law. Where we can never, can put might before right. So in that way, India will be a very strong defender of this principle, the same principle as we are defending. WION: How do you see India's ties and How do you see India's role in the Arctic? Anniken Huitfeldt: Well you have some researchers up there and it is important that we do common research in order to decrease the temperature. There is a very high risk of devastating consequences of the rise in temperature in this area and we will need to cooperate with India on that. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Need to discuss the threats from China, says Norway FM Anniken Huitfeldt

While speaking to WION's Siddhant Sibbal, Norway's foreign minister Anniken Huitfeldt has said that there needs to be a discussion on the 'threats from China' and concerning developments of the Indo-Pacific region will be part of the conversations at the NATO FMs meet in Oslo.

'Needs to be a discussion on threats from China', says Norway FM Anniken Huitfeldt

NATO FMs meet in Norway: Sweden's Turkey bid likely to dominate talks

NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg has announced the deployment of 700 additional troops to Kosovo. A day after the clashes in the coast of the city of Zvekan, left 30 NATO peacekeepers and 52 Serbian demonstrators injured.

Clashes in Serbia: NATO to deploy 700 additional troops to Kosovo after 30 NATO soldiers injured

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