NATO should pay special attention to China's cooperation with Russia - Finland Minister

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Pekka Haavisto said this today in Brussels before a meeting of NATO foreign ministers, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Haavisto said that in his opinion, NATO should now pay special attention to China and its growing cooperation with Russia.

"Of course, we closely followed Chinese President Xi's visit to Moscow and we are beware that China will offer assistance to Russia in aggression against Ukraine. I think it is important to give a joint response. And today, it is important to listen to our friends from the Indo-Pacific region in this regard," the top diplomat said.

He also emphasized that NATO partners should remain united on this issue.

Helsinki also believes that Sweden may join the Alliance before the NATO summit in Vilnius in July this year.

"It feels like a long wait when we have a war in Europe. Even if we know that this was the fastest process. We really want Sweden to join us as soon as possible, hopefully before Vilnius (NATO summit in July this year - ed.)," Haavisto said.

Regarding Ukraine's accession prospects, the minister is convinced that both NATO and EU membership are important for Ukraine.

At the same time, he emphasized that it is very important to support Ukraine practically. 

"Finland has already handed over 14 military packages to Ukraine, including heavy weapons. I think this spring is very important. Thus, this is what we can do right now," Haavisto said.

As Ukrinform reported, NATO believes that Finland's accession will undoubtedly strengthen the Alliance.

On April 4-5, a meeting of NATO foreign ministers is taking place in Brussels.