Sweden has previously pushed for the issue of an arms embargo against Turkey at EU level following Turkey's military offensive in northern Syria.
- From the Swedish side, it is extremely important that we not only have a condemnation, but also that we somehow show that we are prepared to put action behind the words, said Foreign Minister Ann Linde before a meeting with EU foreign ministers in October 2019.
There is no official embargo.
The Ministry of Justice writes in a text message to SVT: "The government does not make decisions about arms exports, the ISP does.
Each case is handled individually. ”
- Neither now nor before has there been an arms embargo against Turkey, if there are inquiries, we try them on a case-by-case basis, says ISP chief Karl Evertsson.
Three rejections in 2019
Swedish Radio has previously reported that ISP rejected three applications from companies that wanted to sell weapons to Turkey in 2019. Since then, no weapons have been sold.
- The number of requests for exports to Turkey has been extremely limited in recent years.
It can also be good to remember that it is the Swedish defense industry that applies for a permit if you want to export.
It is required that there is an interest from the Swedish defense industry.
In an interview with Expressen, Karl Evertsson says that a "Swedish NATO membership is among aspects that can affect a trial".
He tells SVT that ISP relates to the same regulations as they did six months ago.
- What consequences a NATO membership can have in general and export control is a political issue that the government must look at.
He also says that conditions can change over time.
- The regulations are structured as such.
If there are changes in Sweden's defense and foreign policy interests, the trial may land in a different outcome.
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Three questions about the alleged Swedish arms embargo against Turkey Photo: SVT / TT