Prague – At a time when the world faces geopolitical and economic uncertainty, Canada and Sweden, two like-minded and trusted partners, are deepening relations to advance shared priorities for the benefit of our people and in the interest of global stability.
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Tobias Billström, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, in Stockholm to reaffirm the long-standing friendship shared by the two countries; a friendship that has been strengthened by their over 80 years of diplomatic relations and that is underpinned by shared values, including a commitment to human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
The Ministers discussed how Sweden makes NATO stronger and more secure. Minister Billström thanked Canada for its support throughout the NATO Accession process, including being the first Ally to ratify Sweden’s accession. As NATO Allies, the Ministers pledged to deepen transatlantic security cooperation and tackle challenges together. Minister Joly recalled that prior to Sweden’s accession to NATO, Canadian and Swedish troops trained Ukrainian forces together under Operation UNIFIER. She welcomed Sweden’s commitment to work shoulder to shoulder with Canada as part of the NATO Forward Land Forces Latvia Brigade.
As Canada and the Nordic countries are like-minded neighbours and co-founding members of the Arctic Council, Minister Joly reiterated Canada’s strong interest in pursuing cooperation with Sweden toward a productive and successful Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue. Minister Joly underscored the importance Canada places on the Arctic. The Ministers agreed to explore opportunities for further Canada-Sweden cooperation in the Arctic, including addressing the evolving challenges and threats facing the region.
The Ministers reaffirmed the two countries’ unwavering support for Ukraine and commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in its internationally recognized borders. They agreed that Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has demonstrated the critical importance of transatlantic unity. They also discussed avenues for further cooperation through the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.
The Ministers also expressed their deep concern over the latest developments in Gaza. Both ministers underscored their urgent call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and for the unconditional release of all hostages being held by Hamas and other groups in Gaza.
The Ministers also discussed the Indo-Pacific region, as well as opportunities for deepening existing cooperation on arbitrary detention and PS752.
The Ministers look forward to the informal meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Prague, Czechia, on May 30 and 31, where they will further discuss shared priorities and challenges with Allies.