News
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13.2.2026
EU leaders' retreat: Prime Minister Orpo calls for bold decisions to reform the European economy
European Union heads of state and government gathered for an informal retreat at Alden Biesen Castle in Belgium on Thursday 12 February to discuss how to boost Europe’s competitiveness and strengthen the single market.
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5.12.2025
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24.10.2025
European Council Confirms Support for Strengthening European Defense – Finland Emphasizes Support for Ukraine
The European Council, meeting in Brussels on Thursday, 23 October, expressed strong support for strengthening European defense and security. During the meeting, it was decided to develop European defense capabilities based on the European Commission’s Defence Preparedness 2030 roadmap. Heads of state also discussed the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, as part of a “war reparations law.” In addition, EU leaders addressed the situation in the Middle East, competitiveness, and issues related to housing and migration.
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2.7.2025
Finland supports Commission’s proposal concerning 90 per cent emission reduction target by 2040
The European Commission has published a legislative proposal on the emission reduction target for 2040. The Commission proposes a net emission reduction target of 90 per cent by 2040 compared to the 1990 levels.
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11.6.2025
Nordic Countries Call for Better Geographical Balance in EU Institutions
Nordic EU member states are pushing for fairer national representation within the European Union’s institutions, voicing concerns over a growing imbalance in staff composition.
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9.6.2025
EU publishes communication on digital foreign policy advocated by Finland
Finland welcomes the EU international digital strategy, which was published as a joint communication of the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on 5 June 2025.
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22.5.2025
EU-African Union ministerial meeting
EU and the African Union foreign ministers met in Brussels on 21 May to review progress since the 2022 Summit and strengthen cooperation. The meeting marked the 25th anniversary of the EU-AU partnership, paving the way for the 7th AU-EU Summit later this year.
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21.5.2025
Foreign Affairs Council adopted the 17th sanctions package and supported the review of Article 2 of the EU-Israel association agreement
On 20 May the Foreign Affairs Council adopted the 17th package of sanctions against Russia, and discussed EU's support to Ukraine. The Council decided to lift all economic sanctions on Syria and discussed the situation in Gaza. Finland among the strong majority of member states supported the review of Article 2 of the EU-Israel association agreement.
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28.3.2025
Towards a better prepared and more resilient EU
Following multiple crises in recent years and the changed security landscape in Europe, most notably the unprovoked war of aggression by Russia in Ukraine, it has become clear that the EU and Europeans must become more prepared and more resilient. This is why Finland has been actively advocating for an EU Preparedness Strategy, introduced on 26 March by the European Commission.
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27.3.2025
Driving Sustainable Growth: The Role of Bioeconomy in Europe’s Future
The bioeconomy is more than just a concept — it is a powerful engine for sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness. By leveraging renewable natural resources, it reduces dependence on fossil fuels, creates new business opportunities and accelerates technological advancements while supporting climate goals. On 26 March 2025, key policymakers, industry leaders and researchers gathered at the Permanent Representation of Finland to the EU in Brussels to explore how the EU’s bioeconomy strategy can shape a more sustainable and competitive future. The event featured high-level discussions, expert panels and insights into how bio-based industries can lead Europe’s green transition.