The US Pre-Clearance System will be introduced at Arlanda-Stockholm

The Swedish Minister of Interior Anders Ygeman and the US Ambassador to Sweden Azita Raji today signed a security agreement which makes it possible to introduce the US aviation preclearance systemat at Arlanda-Stockholm Airport. 

This agreement was a result of lengthy and complicated negotiations, according to the Swedish Minister.

“There have been questions about costs, about weapons, how to deal with those who are not allowed to enter, for example. But now we are in agreement, he said. At a special ceremony Ygeman and Ambassador Raji signed the agreement as a result of the close cooperation between the two countries on security matters. 

In practical terms, the agreement will mean that US personnel do customs and security checks are already at the airport for those travelers who take a direct flight from the destination of United States. The powers will be the same as the other staff at the airport, for example, existing armament. “They will be unarmed but have access to weapons when needed”, says Ygeman.

The Government has already appointed a committee which will look into whether, and if so, what legislative changes required for the system to function according to Swedish law. It is planned to be presented next summer.

Azita Raji says she is proud that the countries now agree:”The agreement gives US Authorities the ability to control people before they get on the plane and the relations between the two countries will improve. We also hope to increase tourism, this can only lead to better understanding and friendship between us. For Sweden, I also believe that there are economic benefits to be the first country in the Nordic countries with this kind Airport. Arlanda get the opportunity to become a hub in the region”, continued Raji at the Pres Conference today.