VILNIUS, November 28 (Sputnik) – Sweden is determined to strengthen its military potential and tighten cooperation with its neighbours, though it has no plans to join NATO, Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist said at Friday's press conference.
"Our priority is to boost Sweden's military potential and strengthen relationship with neighbors," Hultqvist said during his visit to Vilnius, adding that the kingdom was looking for closer cooperation and the exchange of intelligence information with countries in the Baltic region.
The minister stated that the country's government approved of closer relationship with NATO, but had no plans of joining it.
NATO and Sweden enjoy cooperation with regards to peacekeeping and security operations, with the alliance viewing Sweden as an active partner. However, Sweden does not pursue NATO membership.
According to a survey commissioned by Sweden's TV4 News in October, around 37 percent of Swedish population are in favour of joining NATO, with 36 opposing it.
