Finland's Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand Satu Mattila-Budich says Finland joining NATO would “increase the stability in Europe”.
When asked how tensions will increase between Russia and Finland in the short term, Ms Mattila-Budich said “we know the criticism by Russia so it’s nothing new for us”.
“But we feel that ... Finland joining the NATO would increase stability in Europe and joining NATO is not a threat to Russia or to any other country,” she said.
“So, I hope that … the tensions will be not increased.”
NATO leaders are expected to formally invite Sweden and Finland to become members before the end of the summit in Madrid, after Turkey dropped its objections to their applications on Tuesday.
