Strategic partnership between Poland and Sweden in the area of security: Minister of Defense visits the Berga base

Sweden, a newly joined NATO ally, strengthens cooperation with Poland on multiple fronts. The strategic partnership agreement signed in November 2024 has led to initiatives such as the Combined Task Force Baltic and the NATO mission "Baltic Sentry," both critical for ensuring security in the Baltic Sea region.

- Three countries command the Baltic. (...) This is an important initiative under which a new command has been established. Poland is a very important partner, and so is Sweden. The strategic cooperation agreement signed by our prime ministers at the end of November is now being implemented. It was then that the declaration for the Baltic protection mission, 'Baltic Sentry,' was made. Baltic states and other nations are joining this mission, and we hope more will follow. We discussed this and how to promote the mission among NATO members. We intend to raise this matter at the upcoming NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels. This Baltic mission is crucial, as it encompasses trade routes, critical infrastructure, and energy supply chains—all of which must be adequately protected - emphasized the Polish Minister of Defense following the meeting.

Defense industry collaboration, Baltic Sea security, and critical infrastructure protection dominated discussions with Sweden's Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson. During a joint press conference, both ministers underscored the importance of NATO cooperation and ongoing support for Ukraine.

-Everything we discussed involves increased spending. Poland and Sweden are examples of nations that not only meet the 2% defense spending target but exceed it, demonstrating they are solid allies with determination and a clear vision. Without security, everything else becomes meaningless—education, healthcare, economic development all depend on it. Enhanced security spending is our duty. I am glad that Poland, Sweden, and the Baltic states—the northern EU nations, which we count ourselves among in this context—meet this criterion and set an example for maintaining strong transatlantic relations - remarked Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Defense industry representatives from both nations participated in a subsequent session, focusing on joint projects and boosting support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression.

- Poland-Sweden cooperation and aid for Ukraine have strengthened ties between our nations in recent years. Donations, equipment, training—we discussed all of this during our meeting. We are ready to provide further assistance to Ukraine. Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. All our political discussions respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence. It is crucial to prepare for the most challenging scenarios, which can only be achieved through coordinated actions - stressed the Polish Minister of Defense during the conference.

According to Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz, the Polish and Swedish defense ministries will soon draft the following documents:

• A bilateral military cooperation plan,
• A shared agenda for the development of defense industries,
• A roadmap for defense ministries of Poland and Sweden for 2026–2027.

Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson shared his perspective on the meeting.

- I agree with the Polish Minister of Defense that the NATO Baltic Sentry operation is a key component in strengthening security in the Baltic Sea region. During our meeting at the Swedish naval base in Berga, we discussed the security situation, expanding our armed forces, and further support for Ukraine. Sweden will contribute to Baltic Sentry by deploying up to three naval vessels and an ASC890 reconnaissance unit, which will be delivered to Ukraine alongside F-16 aircraft operations. The Coast Guard will also increase its presence and work more closely with the Armed Forces. Poland and Sweden are seizing opportunities to deepen security cooperation through our new strategic partnership. Together, we are rearming Europe and bolstering deterrence against Russian aggression. Swift action is essential to ensure a stronger and safer Europe - said Sweden's Minister of Defense.