Sweden is progressing towards NATO membership as Turkey’s parliamentary foreign affairs committee approved a protocol for Sweden’s inclusion in the alliance. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan initially objected but later dropped his opposition during a NATO summit in July. The delay in approval was due to Turkey’s concerns about Sweden’s stance on Kurdish militants and other perceived security threats, as well as anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm. The protocol must now be approved by the full general assembly, and Erdogan’s approval is also required for it to take effect. However, some obstacles remain, including potential opposition from nationalist allies of Erdogan’s party and Islamist parties frustrated with Western nations’ stances on various issues.

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