Turkey's Erdogan sets conditions for Finland, Sweden's NATO bids

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Turkey has long accused Nordic countries, in particular Sweden which has a strong Turkish immigrant community, of harbouring outlawed Kurdish militants as well as supporters of Fethullah Gulen, the US-based preacher wanted over the failed 2016 coup.

Erdogan's threat throws a major potential obstacle in the way of membership for the hitherto militarily non-aligned Nordic nations since a consensus is required in NATO decisions.

"Unless Sweden and Finland clearly show that they will stand in solidarity with Turkey on fundamental issues, especially in the fight against terrorism, we will not approach these countries' NATO membership positively," Erdogan told NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in a phone call, according to the presidency.

On Twitter, Stoltenberg said he spoke with Erdogan "of our valued ally" on the importance of "NATO's open door".

"We agree that the security concerns of all allies must be taken into account and talks need to continue to find a solution," he said.

On Thursday, Stoltenberg said Turkey's "concerns" were being addressed to find "an agreement on how to move forward".
"I can work independently using my own initiative or as part of a team."

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