Germany downplays Sweden, Finland's NATO bid expectation: Report

Germany, on Monday, downplayed expectation that NATO summit next week would take concrete decision on Finland and Sweden's membership, but it stressed that a deal was in sight.

"I think this is about expectations management and to place this in its historical context," said a high-ranking German government source.

"And given the historical dimension, it would not be a catastrophe if we need a few more weeks" to find a deal, the source added.

"We are confident, very confident that a solution can be found that takes into account both sides' interests."

The official was quoted by AFP.

NATO had originally expected Finland and Sweden's membership bids to sail through quickly at a time when the alliance is keen to show a united front vis-a-vis Russia.

But Turkey's last minute resistance has thrown them off course.

Ankara has accused Finland and Sweden of providing a safe haven for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a "terrorist" group by Turkey and its Western allies.

Ankara has also demanded that they lift their weapons freezes on Turkey.

(With inputs from agencies)