James Cleverly to visit Sweden to discuss NATO accession plans

The Foreign Secretary will renew UK backing for Sweden’s bid to join Nato during a visit to the country this week, Report informs, citing The Independent.

James Cleverly insisted accession “must happen as soon as possible” to “make us all safer” ahead of traveling to Gotland, a strategically important island just 200 miles north of Kaliningrad – home to Russia’s Baltic Fleet.

During his visit, Mr. Cleverly will meet Swedish foreign minister Tobias Billstrom and hold a discussion on European security as part of Almedalen Week, an annual event on Gotland.

The Foreign Secretary will also meet Swedish defence minister Pal Jonson to discuss strengthening cooperation including through joint exercises and training between the countries’ armed forces.