"We already have close ties with NATO through exercises. I believe that the level that we are now is quite good and we will continue on that path but as It looks like today, I don't think the Sweden's NATO application is in the near future," Peter Jeppsson said.
In May and earlier in June, Finland and Sweden’s foreign and defense ministers took part, for the first time ever, in NATO ministerial talks in Brussels.
Sweden officially declares itself as neutral and non-aligned, however sometimes contributes to various NATO operations.
Since 2014, NATO has been building up its military presence in eastern European countries bordering Russia, using Moscow's alleged interference in Ukraine as a pretext for the move. Moscow has repeatedly denied the claims and warned the Alliance that its military buildup along Russia’s borders is provocative and could threaten regional and global stability.