Sweden will host its first NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Helsingborg on May 21-22, 2026, according to reports from Swedish media. The two-day event marks Sweden's debut as host of a NATO diplomatic gathering since joining the alliance.
The meeting will begin with an informal dinner at Sofiero Castle on May 21, followed by formal discussions on May 22 at Clarion Sea U hotel. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will lead the formal meeting, while Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard will play a key hosting role.
Through this, Sweden shows that we are a dedicated ally
Approximately 1,000 people are expected to attend, including 32 NATO foreign ministers and their delegations. Among the anticipated attendees is U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, though his attendance reportedly remains uncertain amid recent tensions between the U.S. and NATO allies over the Iran conflict.
Foreign Minister Malmer Stenergard stated that hosting the meeting demonstrates Sweden's commitment as a dedicated NATO ally. She expressed hope that all ministers, including Rubio, would attend, saying 'I hope that he and all others will come.'
The choice of Helsingborg as the venue is reportedly due to its strategic location at the Öresund Strait, which connects the Baltic Sea to the North Sea and is considered one of NATO's most strategically important regions.