Foreign Minister Valtonen: Cooperation with Arctic allies strengthens Finland's security

Foreign Ministers from the allied Arctic nations, the Arctic Seven (A7), met in New York on 21 September. Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen represented Finland at the meeting. The A7 comprises Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Canada and the United States. The meeting was convened by the United States.

The ministers discussed enhancing security in the Arctic, strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence, and issues related to the maritime industry, infrastructure and technological development.

“We have taken significant, concrete steps to strengthen NATO’s deterrence and defence in the Arctic to respond to the Russian threat. This work will continue. Finland’s extensive and diverse Arctic expertise is in demand and presents opportunities in sectors including the maritime industry and icebreakers, the defence industry, space and satellite technology and the circular economy,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.

“The recent developments regarding the negotiations between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States are positive and we look forward to the signing of the agreement. The anticipated agreement would strengthen cooperation aimed at promoting stability in the Arctic region", Minister Valtonen continues.