Borrell optimistic for a solution to Turkey's objections to Sweden, Finland

Photo: AA/File

The foreign policy chief of the European Union (EU) is hopeful that NATO will overcome Turkey's objections to the membership of Sweden and Finland.

Asked by reporters about the issue ahead of a meeting of EU defense ministers today (May 17), Josep Borrell said, "I know that Turkey has put some objections. I hope NATO will be able to overcome them."

President Sauli Niinisto of Finland also said he is hopeful that a solution can be found while noting the "change in the statement from Turkey over the past few days."

While the situation has become harder, he said, "But I am sure that, with the help of constructive discussions, we will solve the situation."

After the two countries expressed their intentions to join the bloc, Turkey said it would veto their membership because of their "support for terror groups."

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan described the two countries, especially Sweden, as a "guesthouse for terrorists."

CLICK - Erdoğan insists Turkey will not approve Sweden and Finland joining NATO

CLICK - Çavuşoğlu explains what Turkey wants in return for accepting NATO membership of Sweden, Finland

(VK)