Germany is closely following the discussion on the possible accession of both nations to the alliance, the Chancellor was quoted by the press in the capital, despite Russia’s concerns about the expansion of the military bloc to the East.

However, the German head of government pointed out that the decision on the membership of the bloc should be taken only by the citizens of these two countries.

Scholz also added that Germany considers Finland and Sweden as partners, regardless of whether they are NATO members or not.

The discussion on Finland and Sweden’s membership in the Atlantic alliance intensified in early April, following an escalation of the military conflict in eastern Ukraine.

A large proportion of Finnish parliamentarians are in favor of joining NATO, and some 65% of Finnish citizens are in favor of the prospect, according to the results of a survey published in the daily Helsingin Sanomat.

Meanwhile, preliminary work in Sweden on the possibilities of joining the regional bloc will be completed by May 13.

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