In a significant move to enhance regional cooperation and security, Sweden has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with its Baltic Sea neighbors and NATO allies on the protection of critical undersea infrastructure. The agreement was concluded on May 16, 2025, in Stockholm.
The MoU marks an important step towards increased coordination and information sharing among the participating countries to strengthen the protection of undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. According to Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, "This MoU represents a significant step forward in regional cooperation on protecting critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea." Recent events have highlighted the need for collective action to address issues related to the protection of critical infrastructure.
The Government is taking proactive measures to strengthen security in the Baltic Sea. Several government agencies have been tasked with enhancing maritime surveillance, strengthening international cooperation, and improving the ability to detect and report disruptions that may affect essential public services. The new mission for the Swedish Armed Forces and Coast Guard aims to increase security in the region by bolstering surveillance capabilities.
The MoU encompasses cooperation within various frameworks, including those of the European Union (EU), NATO, and other organizations. It also aims to enhance regional cooperation through the exchange of best practices and measures. Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin noted that "This MoU is an important step in further strengthening our collective ability to manage incidents and protect undersea infrastructure."
The participating states at the Baltic Sea NATO Allies Summit in Helsinki originally agreed to draw up this Memorandum of Understanding on May 14, 2025. The agreement aims to improve situational awareness and facilitate enhanced information sharing among the countries.
Key Features of the MoU:
Increased regional cooperation through improved information sharing and exchange of best practices
Enhanced situational awareness and ability to detect and report disruptions that may affect essential public services
Cooperation within the frameworks of the EU, NATO, and other organizations
The signing of this MoU demonstrates Sweden's commitment to strengthening security in the Baltic Sea. By working together with its neighbors and allies, Sweden aims to create a safer and more secure region for all.
Summary:
Sweden has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the protection of critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea with its Baltic Sea neighbors and NATO allies. The agreement strengthens regional cooperation and enhances the protection of undersea infrastructure through improved information sharing, exchange of best practices, and cooperation within various frameworks. This marks an important step forward in securing the region and demonstrates Sweden's commitment to strengthening security in the Baltic Sea.