Greetings from Foreign Minister Tuomioja for the New Year

Our world today is characterised by continously growing interdependence. No country, be it a superpower or a small island state, can evade it.

Security challenges in today's world can only be met through the broadest possible multi-lateral cooperation. This is well understood in Finland and our country is therefore an active participant in all international fora and organisations.

In addition to the EU, Nordic cooperation is a key channel of cooperation for Finland. Because of their similar societies, the Nordic countries pursue common goals in many contexts in the UN, the EU and the OSCE, and partly also in NATO.

Finland has particular strengths in certain areas. Examples include a comprehensive approach to crisis management, peace mediation, and promotion of gender equality also related to issues of international peace and security.

Finland is known as an active partner in international cooperation. The people of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs contribute to this with there wide experience and competence.

I wish you all a peaceful and relaxing holiday season!